During 44 years as the go-to event for the garden retail industry, Glee (10^th – 12^th September, NEC Birmingham) has undergone many changes.

Reflective of the need to keep retail environments fresh and interesting, the 2018 event will be updated to a vibrant and revitalised Glee exhibition.

From a new location, to a refreshed floorplan and a wealth of additional features and innovative content, Glee 2018 will be THE show to attend if you want to stay ahead of the competition in 2019 and beyond. 

Matthew Mein, Glee’s Event Director, said: “Glee 2018 is all about arming retailers and suppliers with the tools, inspiration and knowledge to grow their businesses.

"This year we have curated a show that builds on the success of previous years but takes it to the next level. This means everything from a new floorplan that will help retailers to walk the show differently, sourcing new suppliers and exciting new products along the way, to a much more in-depth programme of content that will help cut through the noise regarding latest consumer trends, merchandising techniques and the future of garden retailing.

"The event is all about bringing together the most influential figures and brands from across the garden and outdoor leisure industry and providing them with a platform to network and find ways to grow together. In doing so we believe this will help to futureproof their businesses in this ever changing and demanding retail environment.”

What’s new at Glee 2018

Increased footprint at the NEC

In 2018 Glee will be benefitting from a complete relocation into NEC halls 6,7,8, 19-20, providing the show with a much bigger footprint, and an even larger and more exciting exhibition.  

Exhibitors will be relocating to new stand spaces, whilst visitors will be walking an updated floorplan; discovering new products and companies at every turn. 

The overall effect will be a refreshed, revitalised event, as Matthew Mein explains: “Glee has been growing at a significant rate – we had over 200 new brands join us at the 2017 event - and that means we’ve outgrown our previous home. Glee has successfully relocated before, and we believe that this next move will be received with the same level of industry support.

"Not only will we be able to better accommodate more exhibitors and visitors, but its refreshed layout will breathe new life into the show. This move is inspired by the way that retailers keep their store interesting for customers by constantly revising the layout. This way customers discover more, and ultimately spend more – something we know our exhibitors and visitors want to replicate during their time at Glee.”

Bigger content programme with more high-profile speakers

Building more content to help support the continuous growth of gardening in the UK will be a key theme of the 2018 event. Garden retailing is continuing to buck the trend, with growth for both garden retailers and suppliers continuing to grab the headlines. At Glee 2018 look out for more features, seminar sessions and year-round information relating to trends, merchandising and practical advice on ways to build better business, whilst also tackling the most burning issues set to affect the industry in the years ahead.

Glee’s Seminar Theatre will also be getting an upgrade in 2018, including a relocation to hall 8. With an increase in visitors to the theatre of 30% year-on-year, Glee will be working to bring even more high-profile speakers to the stage in 2018 such as Charlie Dimmock, The Skinny Jean Gardener, Romeo Sommers and Lee Bestall. 

The purrfect place to source pet products – Pets at Glee

Bigger and better than ever before, ‘Pets at Glee’ will be a thriving section of Glee, designed to make it even easier for garden centre pet buyers to directly source 2019 ranges, whilst also benefitting from unrivalled networking and educational content.

A ‘Pets at Glee’ entrance (Hall 19) will drive retailers right into the heart of the pet area, whilst a special pet seminar stage will also be making its debut at the show. Marking a significant investment for this new era of Pets at Glee, the seminar stage will offer insight into the latest trends shaping the pet care sector such as the humanisation and premiumisation of pet products, as well as interactive content that can be implemented instore to boost pet care within the garden retail environment.

The new look ‘Pets at Glee’ will also be a hub of information, innovative new products and business advice that will enable those 70% of garden retailers who currently offer pet products to boost their business in the year ahead, helping them to take a slice of the £5billion** spent on pet products, food and accessories annually in the UK.

PetQuip – the leading international trade association for manufacturers and suppliers of pet care goods and services - has also confirmed that it will be continuing its support for the PetQuip Business Village.

Retail Lab set to return in 2018

The Retail Lab @ Glee was introduced in 2017 to showcase the latest trends within the garden industry, whilst also providing retailers with hands on advice and inspirational content that they can take back to their own stores to drive sales in the coming season.  The response to this new area surpassed expectations, with suppliers and retailers remarking on the immediate ‘take home’ value of the Lab’s content. 

This year the Retail Lab will focus on bringing Happy Gardening to the fore. This trend builds on much of the content showcased within the 2017 Retail Lab but will dig a little deeper into the many ways that gardening can enhance our lives – from GYO to ‘play’, pets and easy gardening for those making their first tentative steps into the garden, or those who require an easier style of gardening. From getting outdoors more, to bringing together communities and families over the simple act of nurturing plants, fruit and vegetables, Happy Gardening is quite simply a theme which encourages us to get dirt under our nails, make mistakes, try something new, and celebrate the act of interacting with gardens, plants and the great outdoors.

Complementing the Happy Gardening theme will be the way in which the Retail Lab is presented. This year the area will benefit from a strong cubism design, chosen for its ability to be recreated within garden retail environments, as well as being reflective of the pop-up shop culture that has helped to make retailing more agile and able to respond to key trends almost immediately. Additionally, these cubes are representative of urban living – an area where bringing more greenery into the home will greatly improve the quality of life on offer.  During the show, these ‘cubes’ will be created to help visitors to the Retail Lab go on a journey through both the Happy Gardening theme, as well as within the retail environment, providing inspiration at every step and showcasing how to maximise multiple sales through clever merchandising displays.

Once again, the Retail Lab @ Glee will be created in partnership with a panel of industry experts, led by Creative Director, Romeo Sommers of ByRomeo, with Paula Parker of PP8 Marketing heading up the day-to-day management of this pivotal show feature. Lisa White, Head and Creative Director of WGSN Lifestyle & Interiors, has once again shared her wealth of industry and trend insight to help shape the Retail Lab content in 2018, whilst GES has also been confirmed as the 2018 stand contractors, helping to bring the Retail Lab concepts to life.

In additional to the amazing team behind the Retail Lab, the area will also be supported by a number of sponsors. Woodlodge, Hozelock, Scheurich, Capi Europe BV,, Elho, Kaemingk, PTMD, Gardena, Ivyline, Meadow View Stone, Key Essentials, Gardena and Air So Pure, and are confirmed as 2018 Supplier Partners, providing them a wealth of opportunity to promote their brand and latest product innovations.

Matthew added: “The market which Glee represents is constantly changing, which means Glee also has to change in order to better facilitate the needs and wants of all those in the supply chain, from supplier to retailer. The 2018 show is in great shape, and we are confident that Glee’s combined offering will arm all those that visit, and also all those that exhibit, with the tools, knowledge and inspiration they need to develop their offering in the year ahead, once again keeping garden retailing ahead of the curve. We’re excited for the market to see Glee 2018 in all its glory and look forward to welcoming everyone to the show come September.”

Online registration for Glee is now live, enabling buyers and retailers to get online and book their free ticket to the leading showcase for the garden and outdoor living industry. Register online today to save yourself £20 and receive free parking and a dedicated show catalogue.

Simply visit www.gleebirmingham.com and click the ‘Get Your Free Ticket’ button to confirm your attendance at the 2018 show.

Bringing together over 550 of the freshest and most exciting brands from across eight core product sectors, Glee is also a hotspot for cross industry networking, and sourcing the latest innovation and never before seen products set to drive profits in 2019 and beyond. A rich educational and inspirational programme of content completes Glee’s offering, helping to make it the most vital event in the annual garden retail calendar.

Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director, said: “Whilst on the website why not also view the wealth of wider information that is available, helping you to plan your trip around the show. With so much content packed into a three-day schedule it’s worth familiarising yourself with everything before coming on-site to ensure you maximise every moment at the show. It’s also worth considering joining one of our new Discovery Tours, which will help highlight the ‘must-see’ parts of the show.”

To register for Glee 2018 simply visit www.gleebirmingham.com or click here to secure your free ticket.

To secure a space on the Discovery Tours please visit https://www.gleebirmingham.com/visit/whats-on/glee-discovery-tour

Top selling grass seed brand Johnsons Lawn Seed is aiming to showcase research and development breakthroughs, never before seen solutions and new improved products at Glee this year. 

Accompanied by a fresh new look stand, located on the main aisle in Hall 8, Glee 2018 will be a particularly exciting one for DLF’s UK subsidiary.

Improvements have been made to two long running favourites that are both best-sellers and category leaders.  Particular efforts with the application of seed coating technology will see the new improved products achieve higher germination rates.

But the biggest surprise for retailers could come with a product that has passed its final testing phase – which Guy Jenkins, Johsnons Lawn Seed Consumer Manager says could revolutionise how we care for our lawns. 

“These are incredibly exciting times in the world of lawn seed, our research and development teams have come up with a number of breakthroughs that will provide a positive knock on effect for lawn care sales. 

"Lawn owners will not only enjoy a wider range of products, they’ll also achieve greater results more easily, further increasing demand for the category.”

Find out more

To book a meeting on stand before your visit to Glee, please call 01386 791113, or alternatively find the DLF/Johnsons Lawn Seed team on their stand B50-C51 in Hall 8. For current product ranges from Johnsons Lawn Seed please visit http://www.johnsonslawnseed.com/product-range.aspx

Meadow View Stone have installed NEW POS merchandising at a selection of their stockists to test bed the return on sales leading up to Glee, which has reported some fantastic sales increases of up to 68%!

Sarah Hill, Marketing Director, stated: “Our innovative approach to POS and merchandising has yielded some great results for our stockists, transforming their sales areas and increasing sales values and turnover significantly, in some cases sales have increased as much as 68%!

"With the lowest return being an increase of 46%, the results have been incredible”. 

The new POS features excellent product photography that engages and inspires customers, whilst also strongly motivating up-selling opportunities into relating product sectors. Customers are delighted with the results, reporting a vast transformation to their sales area, and with an increase in sell through rates the products and merchandising are clearly performing. Furthermore, the average sales value per unit sold has also increased by as much as 17%, due in part to the higher value products having a good sell through rate.

Sarah stated: “Customers have been persuaded to stock lines to fill space on the basis that similar products of this nature have sold well in the past, however product saturation with similar like for like products on an equal price point means that one product is cannibalised at the expense of another, with a stalemate of slow moving lines.  

"Advising customers to think about careful product placement and offering more product variety, at varying price points, has proven that the unit sales value can be increased as well as offering a wider variety of products. 

"In particular we have seen huge success with our wide selection of on-trend grey products from our Weathered Stone Paving to Polar Ice Chippings, both of which have experienced record sales and are well placed to react to the demand for customers seeking a more contemporary look. 

"The demand for more muted urban colours, such as grey, heavily influenced our product launches last year at Glee. It’s been great to see the sales spikes as a result of this demand, which has been reflected in everything from choice of outdoor furniture to paint - the UK is certainly looking at Grey as their number one choice.”

The new POS and merchandising will be unveiled at Glee on their stand 19C30-D31. 

Meadow View are inviting all customers to visit their stand and enjoy a drink within their hospitality area and to take a look at how they are transforming and shaping the Garden Centre industry for the future.

Seed potatoes will be one of the talking points on the Taylors Bulbs stand according to Adam Taylor.

"Glee is a fantastic opportunity for us to check if customers have got their seed potatoes booked in good time, particularly for those that want to get them on display in December," says Adam.

"We are finding more and more customers want to take a December delivery as the seed potatoes fill the space that comes available as the Christmas display is shopped and they have their offer all set-up for the early sales."  

Taylors will be showing display ideas and giving hints and tips for marketing and merchandising opportunities for their range of over 50 varieties available in 2kg carripacks, bulk sacks for loose sale or as their market-leading "Taster" pre-packs.

The Spring 2019 Summer flowering bulb catalogue (containing the seed potato offer) is already on customers doormats and includes over 60 new products.  

New for the UK garden retail market will be three varieties of UK grown Oca ("New Zealand Yam") and the re-launch of the Extra Value bulb range in new packaging.

"Our Glee stand is also the perfect opportunity for garden retailers to inspect the added-value gift products and we find a lot of customers build-up their Christmas display with additional bulb kits", says Adam.

Taylors Bulbs, are the UK's leading supplier of flower bulbs; a 4th generation family business since 1919, designing, packing and distributing all their products from their site in Lincolnshire and with a sales team with a combined experience of over 250 years.  

Taylors are best placed to advise you with all of your flower bulb needs.

www.taylors-bulbs.com

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From the first day stonework is laid, the next time it rains, millions of lichen microspores are deposited. These originate from the trees, initially as tiny spores, similar in size to pollen. Propelled by the wind, they travel for miles, until it rains, when they are watered into the pores of the stone.

For the first twelve months they lay dormant, until they begin to establish themselves by feeding off the minerals in the stone, finally germinating after two years, and appearing on the surface as "patio black spots'.

At this point they are almost impossible to remove, as they react to the minerals, growing both across the stone and putting down fibrous roots. Jet washing has little or no impression, and by focusing the pressure washing continually on one spot, damage can be caused by the vibration of the jet delaminating or eroding the surface.

Most proprietary patio cleaners will remove green algae but can take weeks to work and have no obvious effect on the black lichen.

The Patio Black Spot Remover and Preventer system doesn't just remove those hideous black spots but completely cleans and restores the original colour to all garden stonework, plus prevents their return! The system works on any type or age of stone, ultimately restoring it to the same condition when first laid.

www.patioblackspotremoval.com

Exhibiting at Glee Stand 6L80-M81

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Ao097--mXY

Apta, the leading supplier of planters, will once again be showcasing a wide range of exciting new pots and accessories at Glee, including extensions to the market-leading RHS range, and a huge variety of contemporary and lightweight designs for 2019.

The Apta stand itself is more than twice the size of previous years, covering over 350m2, and finally provides a platform to fully present the company’s extensive product offer. It will also feature the new Apta colours and logos, which have been introduced to refresh the brand alongside the new website.

Director James Hoad comments, “We’re very much looking forward to Glee and to coming back bigger and bolder than ever before. The new stand is in a fantastic location on the main boulevard and this, combined with our biggest ever range, cements our position at the forefront of the industry.”

To be inspired for 2019 visit Apta at stand 6L40-M41 and 7J40-L41.

ExaClair Limited, the UK supplier of iconic handicraft and gifting brands such as Décopatch, Avenue Mandarine, Maildor and Clairefontaine, will be showcasing its ranges of high-quality, creative products at this year’s Glee.

Featured products will include the popular new ranges of Décopatch mini kits and Avenue Mandarine creative box sets.  Clairefontaine’s collection of 100% recycled Raw kraft wrapping and accessories will also be available in a variety of stylish designs.

As well as having a selection of our exciting new retail merchandising units on display, there will also be a LIVE demonstration area, where visitors will have the opportunity to decorate the fun range of papier mâché Décopatch products themselves.

Décopatch is an easy craft to learn and enjoy…inspiring creativity for kids and adults alike.  To Décopatch simply tear the paper, glue to the shape and hey presto…your very own masterpiece!

Clement Rouillard, Marketing Manager at ExaClair, explains: “ExaClair is well known in the UK for our Exacompta, Clairefontaine and Rhodia brands of stationery and fine art products, but with the popularity of Décopatch and our other craft and gifting brands growing more than ever, we are excited to be exhibiting at Glee for the first time as we start to expand into the garden centre sector.” 

“With a comprehensive range of retail display options available on exclusive promotions at the show, combined with the vibrant LIVE Décopatch demonstrations, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand.”

ExaClair offer a variety of support functions to aid both online and in-store sales growth across our UK dealers.  These include access to social media tools such as imagery and videos, plus an extensive range of merchandising units and POS collateral to maximise the brand impact inside a retail store.

There is a selection of merchandisers available across our range of brands, including wall units, tall spinners and smaller counter top displays, which are designed to suit your individual in-store requirements.  These can be supplied with a set collection of products that are based around a theme such as nature or kids.  Alternatively, we can advise on themed and seasonal planograms that can be tailored to your specific shop floor layout.

Amongst those displays featured at the show will be the recently launched Décopatch Kids merchandiser.  This self-contained unit provides an ideal solution for those looking to introduce the Décopatch range into their product offering with a selection of the top selling mini kits, papier mâché models, colourful papers, glues and brushes included.  The display also comes with a FREE large mâché animal that’s half decorated, enabling you to effectively illustrate the decorating process. Coupled with an attractive header and optional product guides, your customers can discover the story and joy of Décopatch.

Upon request, our trained Décopatch demonstrators are available to attend crafting event days and new store openings throughout the year.  In addition, our marketing team are able to assist in pre and post event publicity utilising a variety of promotional channels.

To find out more, visit us on stand 19P15, Hall 19.

For further information, please contact:

marketing@exaclair.co.uk

+44 (0) 1553 696600

ExaClair Limited, Oldmedow Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk.  PE30 4LW.

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.

We're already well advanced in preparations for the Glee Planner which is posted to all pre-registered Glee visitors and the Glee Show Catalogue which is available for FREE as visitors enter the halls at the NEC and now we've published the first issue of this years Glee Daily News.

From now until the end of September the Glee Daily News, in its unique e-mail format, will keep visitors up to date with what they can see at the show and gives exhibitiors the most up to date e-mail vehicle for ensuring buyers know about their new products and other Glee activities.

To make sure you get your own copy of Glee Daily News sign up here

For advertorial and advertisng opportunties please contact Ben Greenwood, Alan Burdon or Mandy Davies at Potting Shed Press Ltd, 01733 775700, owners and publishers of Garden Trade News, Garden Radio and The Greatest Awards.

This year the Retail Lab will focus on bringing Happy Gardening to the fore. This trend builds on much of the content showcased within the 2017 Retail Lab but will dig a little deeper into the many ways that gardening can enhance our lives.

From getting outdoors more, to bringing together communities and families over the simple act of nurturing plants, fruit and vegetables, Happy Gardening is quite simply a theme which encourages us to get dirt under our nails, make mistakes, try something new, and celebrate the act of interacting with gardens, plants and the great outdoors.

Complementing the Happy Gardening theme will be the way in which the Retail Lab is presented at Glee 2018. This year the area will benefit from a strong cubism design, chosen for its ability to be recreated within garden retail environments, as well as being reflective of the pop-up shop culture that has helped to make retailing more agile and able to respond to key trends almost immediately.

Additionally, these cubes are representative of urban living – an area where bringing more greenery into the home will greatly improve the quality of life on offer.  

During the show, these ‘cubes’ will be created to help visitors to the Retail Lab go on a journey through both the Happy Gardening theme, as well as within the retail environment, providing inspiration at every step and showcasing how to maximise multiple sales through clever merchandising displays.

Once again, the Retail Lab @ Glee will be created in partnership with a panel of industry experts, led by Creative Director, Romeo Sommers of ByRomeo, with Paula Parker of PP8 Marketing heading up the day-to-day management of this pivotal show feature. Lisa White, Head and Creative Director of WGSN Lifestyle & Interiors, will return to the Retail Lab in 2018, bringing with her a wealth of industry and trend insight, whilst   GES has also been confirmed as the 2018 stand contractors, helping to bring the Retail Lab concepts to life.

In additional to the amazing team behind the Retail Lab, the area will also be supported by a number of sponsors. Woodlodge, Hozelock, Cadix, Scheurich, Elho, Ivyline and Air So Pure are confirmed as 2018 Preferred Supplier Partners, providing them a wealth of opportunity to promote their brand and latest product innovations.

Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director said: “Last year marked a superb launch of the Retail Lab @ Glee. From the industry support backing the concept from day one, to the amazing trend information, and supplier sponsorship, it all came together to create one of the most exciting and innovative features Glee has ever seen – not to mention the BBC Breakfast coverage that placed the Retail Lab in 1.8million homes on the first day of the show!

"This year, we will be working even harder to deliver even more added value. We believe that every single visitor to Glee – be they retailer or supplier -  can visit the Retail Lab and walk away having learnt something new, be inspired or consider a new way of thinking. It’s an exciting prospect being able to develop this in 2018, and we look forward to sharing more details as we move closer to the September exhibition.”

Launched at Glee 2017, the Retail Lab was a key focal point for the annual garden retail exhibition. Unlike anything before seen at Glee, it was a place to experience the beating heart of the industry, with a view to what the future holds. Combining interactive content, with inspirational product displays and tangible business advice, The Retail Lab cemented itself as a thriving hub of inspiration and knowledge at Glee.

Here we catch up with Carol Wright, UK Marketing Manager at Hozelock, one of the 2017 Retail Lab sponsors, to find out more about Hozelock’s experience and why the company has confirmed its place within the 2018 Retail Lab feature.

What made you decide to become a sponsor of the Retail Lab at Glee in 2017?
We felt the Retail Lab was an unmissable opportunity in that it was important to participate in such a central activity at Glee to be able to connect with the retailers who attend.  The principle of the lab was to demonstrate and signpost activities that could help to drive relevance and excitement to consumers in-store, and to demonstrate how consumers needs are changing, in what is proving to be a very challenging retail environment.  As brand leaders in garden watering, we have a key role to play in helping retailers to participate and engage with the nation’s gardeners.

What products/ranges were included?
We showcased our automatic watering range – Easy Drip, as well as our Cloud and Sensor Controllers.  We also promoted our Plant a Pot for Bees campaign to encourage consumers to plant more bee-friendly pots which have been a huge success and has since been implemented in many garden centres.  Visitors to the Retail Lab also saw our Pure range of natural gardening products, which are an alternative to using chemicals.

How did being part of the Retail Lab benefit your business?
We felt taking part and sponsoring the inaugural Retail Lab at Glee helped us to engage with customers and explain our Plant a Pot campaign, and how well it fitted with forward trends in retailing.  The Retail Lab also provided the perfect launch pad to drive traffic to our stand, so we could have direct conversations with customers.

What advice would you give any other brands thinking of getting involved in 2018?
Make sure you have products or campaigns that work with and complement the trends identified by the Retail Lab.  If you’re not connected in this way, you’ll soon be found lacking!  Go with it and be enthusiastic, it’s a great team effort that helps all the participants.

Have you implemented any of the Retail Lab ideas within your own business? Has it inspired you to think differently about your ranges or how you work with retail customers?
We already had the connections made and the Retail Lab was the perfect way of demonstrating this.  Our Plant a Pot campaign was a perfect fit for the 2017 Re-wilding theme and that grew naturally from our appearance in the Retail Lab.  The concepts also opened up a lot of conversations about the correct format of POS to help retailers and Hozelock communicate these messages in store and allowed us to become more directly involved in our customers’ own marketing activities so we were able to support each other more throughout the season.

What can people expect to see from you at Glee 2018?
We are looking forward to the show in September and will be promoting and supporting messages such as environment, water saving, recycling, connecting with consumers and natural gardening – all a great fit with the Happy Gardening trend identified in this year’s Retail Lab, which will explore the ways that gardening can enhance our lives.

Here we catch up with Scott Thomas, Managing Director of Ivyline, creators of inspired collections of lifestyle products for the home and garden and one of the 2017 Retail Lab sponsors, to find out more about their experience and why the company has confirmed its place within the 2018 Retail Lab feature.

What made you decide to become a sponsor of the Retail Lab at Glee in 2017?

We are passionate about driving innovation in product and retail standards, so the trend lab was a great concept to be involved in. It was also an opportunity to showcase product in another area of Glee and work with the creative team. Houseplants and wellbeing was a major theme of the lab which is a key retail growth area.

What products of yours were displayed?

In 2017, we included some of our hugely successful Happiness Teacups which donate £0.25 for every set sold to Greenfingers Charity, our bold printed Monza planters, hanging indoor planters and selected outdoor planters.

How did being part of the Retail Lab benefit your business?

It gave us extra exposure, new merchandising ideas, extra industry contacts and it was just great to support this initiative.

What advice would you give any other brands thinking of getting involved in 2018?

Get plenty of samples in early, try to tie the creative team down to what they are looking for and just get involved.

Have you implemented any of the Retail Lab ideas within your own business? Has it inspired the way you work with retail customers?

We have used it to inspire customers to build innovative displays in store, show them how visual merchandising really delivers added sales and how to work on hotspots of products.

What can people expect to see from you at Glee 2018?

We are hugely excited about Glee. In 2018, we are experiencing our best ever year in 41 years of trading. For Glee we have doubled the size of our stand and will be launching over 250 new products. Houseplant pots are our biggest focus where we will launch a number of inspirational trend driven collections, there will be new outdoor planter concepts and an amazing range of design led outdoor fire bowls. Prepare to be inspired!

Here we catch up with Michael Wooldridge, Director of Woodlodge, the UK’s leading garden pot supplier and one of the 2017 Retail Lab sponsors, to find out more about their experience and why the company has confirmed its place within the 2018 Retail Lab feature.

What made you decide to become a sponsor of the Retail Lab at Glee in 2017?

We wanted to demonstrate how garden centres can harness their current status as a destination for consumers, one that offers a real experience with nature, whilst promoting linked sales between garden pots and plants.

What products/ranges were included?

We included an attractive selection of planters from our exclusive Heritage Garden Pottery flagship range, our premium Duxton range made from traditional terracotta and our Potting Shed Essentials range.   Container gardening is on the rise due to its ease and ability to complement any outside space, whether it be growing on a balcony, patio, yard or indoors.  What’s more, our product ranges reflected last year’s themes of the Retail Lab perfectly; Well-being, Family, Community, and ‘Re-wilding’ as consumers look to container gardening as a way to brighten up their garden and connect with nature. 

How did being part of the Retail Lab benefit your business?

The Retail Lab focussed on key trends and the ever-changing needs of the garden centre consumer.   Woodlodge is keen to tap into these so we took away some great insights from both the Retail Lab and garden centre buyers that will help us define and shape future products.   Merchandising was also a key feature of the Retail Lab so speaking to garden retailers who were looking to achieving volume sales was important to us as it gave us tips on how we can improve our merchandising and POS services to ensure we remain one of the UK’s leading and most trusted supplier.

What advice would you give any other brands thinking of getting involved in 2018?

I would definitely recommend the Retail Lab to other brands in the industry.   Working alongside Romeo Sommers and WGSN gives you an invaluable insight into upcoming retail trends and fresh, innovative ideas in the garden industry.  The key to it is creating inspiring concepts to entice customers which will benefit both garden centres and your own business. 

Have you implemented any of the Retail Lab ideas within your own business? Has it inspired you to think differently about your ranges/ how you work with retail customers?

We are always on the look-out for visually attractive display solutions to display our product ranges in garden centres. We have tailored some of the cart units used in the Retail Lab for displaying our decorative stick flowers.

Standing out from the crowd, know your products and customer engagement were the key themes at the Glee Exhibitor Workshop, which took place at Poplars Garden Centre in Toddington.

Over 80 delegates from across the garden industry attended the event aimed at making the most out of the annual show. In a format new to the workshop, Trevor Pfeiffer of Garden Trade News interviewed leading garden retailers to learn their top tips on how to engage influential buyers and industry experts, as well as how to secure those vital sales, ahead of Glee 2018 in September.

“Exhibitors at Glee often don’t see the buying signs,” said Alastair Jackson, General Manager at Poplars Garden Centre, an experienced Glee visitor having attended the show for 24 years throughout his career.  “If I’m asking questions, I’m interested and want information.  It’s important for sales staff on the stands to understand their products, be prepared with pricing and communicate with retailers in order to secure sales.”

Alastair has seen a lot of change in Glee over the years, as it goes from strength to strength, and now regards the revitalised show as the key date in the buying calendar. Attending with his department managers and shop staff, Alastair walks every aisle of the show with his team so they can meet with existing suppliers and new ones.  As Poplars plan their ranges six months in advance, he emphasised how important it was for Glee suppliers to keep the communication channels open and follow up on any interest shown to ensure their products are stocked in store.

Simon Bourne, Managing Director at Perrywood Garden Centre, echoed this sentiment on communication and how important it is for exhibitors to ask questions, and most importantly, understand the customer they are talking to.   The large family-run, award winning independent centre sees Glee as the most important show of the year and make a significant investment in seeking out the latest products for the upcoming season.  Simon takes a dedicated team of eight from all departments, as well as members of his marketing team to spot the innovative, new gardening trends before they hit the shelves.

“The latest trends play an important part in Perrywood’s offering,” explains Simon.  “Our houseplants area already has a really large floor space and has seen a sales growth of 25% over the last 18 months.  We look for stands that have made an effort with bold, inspirational, visual displays and eye-catching merchandising that we can replicate in store.  Our stoneware, indoor living, gifting and clothing offerings are also expanding so I want to see what’s new and exciting immediately on the stand I’m visiting. That’s what makes me stop and start a conversation.”

Get in the shoes of the customer was the message from Caroline Linger, Head of Buying at Crocus. With a diverse customer offering through Waitrose, the RHS and Next, as well as its own website and garden centre which attracts designers and horticulturists, Crocus has a very intense, product specific focus and requirements.

“As we operate mainly online, we can represent ‘new’ very quickly,” explained Caroline.  “My team of seven use every minute of the show and last year saw 60 suppliers, new and existing over the three days.   We want to know price, the benefits, how it works and how it will fit on the Crocus website.  We need suppliers to sell their products with confidence and have good displays on stand to give us an idea of how we would present it ourselves. It is important to know your pricing structure depending on the time of season and know our competitors.  Being competitive online is hard, Crocus can’t compete with Amazon or the volume supermarkets so it’s important when you pitch to us, this is understood as a good trading relationship is so important.”

Caroline also emphasised the importance of the marketing of the products displayed at Glee.  She encouraged retailers to work hard before the show and utilise all marketing opportunities available from the copy in the show catalogue, videos to online representation and social media to make sure suppliers stand out from the crowd and shout about their products to guarantee a stand visit.

As well as hearing from each of the garden retailers on how they approach Glee, delegates learnt about the exciting features and opportunities from the show’s team.   Marketing Manager, Luke Murphy gave an overview of this year’s Retail Lab which will focus on the theme of ‘Happy Gardening.’  This trend will build on much of the content showcased within the Retail Lab last year but will dig deeper into the many ways that gardening can enhance our lives.  Focussing on consumer purchasing patterns, this year’s offering will be split into five key areas: Grow Your Own, Feel Good, Play, Pets and Easy Gardening, giving retailers and suppliers inspiration and take-home ideas for their own business.

Marketing and PR experts also told delegates how to increase their brand exposure at Glee with Trevor Pfeiffer outlining the opportunities in Glee Daily News, the Glee Show Catalogue and the New Product Showcase.  Kimberley Hornby, Managing Director at Hornby Whitefoot PR encouraged exhibitors to send preview news and take advantage of the PR opportunities available with UK and international media, bloggers and vloggers, as well as how to get your products into editors’ hands through the VIP goody Bag.    Rachel Cryan, Social Marketing Manager at Glee rounded off the session with an in-depth look at how to use social media to promote presence and products before, after and during the show, the best channels to use, the hashtags to use to engage in conversation as well has how to widen the reach of each post.

Find out more
Glee is the UK’s leading garden retail show, focussing 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 2018 call 020 3033 2160, or email daniel.mcalpin@gleebirmingham.com to find out more about sponsorship opportunities within the 2018 Retail Lab at Glee.

A journey of discovery is coming to Glee this September as the key industry event introduces new guided tours to ensure retailers make the most out of the revitalised show.

As the leading garden retail event in the industry calendar with unrivalled new product sourcing opportunities, it is vital that businesses get the most out of visiting Glee. Plus, with Glee’s ever-expanding portfolio of show features it is more important than ever that visitors are armed with the right information to maximise their time at the show – introducing the new Discovery Tour.

Visitors will now be able to take full advantage of all Glee has to offer with brand new tours led by experienced industry experts from the event’s organisational team, Hornby Whitefoot (Glee’s PR team), and show partner, the HTA.  Offering a unique and bespoke visitor experience, the walking tours will take in the unmissable feature areas of the show including the New Product Showcase, Green Heart and the newly enhanced and dedicated pet sector - Pets at Glee. Each ‘stop’ on the tour will outline what is on offer, how retailers can benefit from spending time in each area and how they can maximise the inspiration and educational takeaway available.

There will be three study tours in total, starting daily at 10:30am, and will operate on all days of the show. Open to both new and regular visitors, including buyers, merchandisers and garden centre owners, anyone participating in the Discovery Tour will benefit by discovering the latest products and trends in the market, access advice on how to display and merchandise within their own stores, as well as view exciting sales concepts and tips for cross selling, whilst also meeting inspirational and innovative suppliers. Each tour will last just 45-minute and will help to plan the rest of their time at the show efficiently and take in the hottest new products from over 550 companies across eight sectors.

The complimentary tours can accommodate up to 30 participants per session, available on a first come, first served basis. You will need to be pre-registered to attend Glee before requesting a spot on the Discovery Tour.  There will also be a chance to sign up to the exclusive Retail Lab tour at the end – back by popular demand and one of the highlights of the show last year.

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein said: “Glee is investing in features and content that truly helps retailers to maximise their time at the show, as well as arming them with tangible business advice that they can implement within their own stores to build profitability and longevity. These new Discovery Tours will ensure visitors take in the ‘must visit’ areas of Glee.  As the show’s offering grows and expands, we want to make it even easier for visitors to make the most of what is available throughout the exhibition. By dedicating just 45 minutes of their time, they can learn everything Glee – and its exhibitors – have on offer to benefit individual businesses.  New visitors will gain first-hand experience of the inner workings of the garden industry, whilst those regular to Glee will get the chance to see their favourite brands, as well as discover new ones.  Those who sign up to the tours will be treated to an exciting and educational experience, gaining lots of take home tips, ideas and concepts to try in their own stores.”

To sign up for your free visitor pass, please register at www.gleebirmingham.com.  To register for the Discovery Tours, please visit https://www.gleebirmingham.com/visit/whats-on/glee-discovery-tour

The horticultural hub of Glee, the Green Heart, is making its return later this year and is set to feature the widest selection of growers and plant specialists to this thriving section of the show. 

Working in partnership with Woodlodge – the Green Heart’s official merchandising bench supplier – this year Green Heart will be made up of 114 benches, making 2018 the biggest ever Green Heart at Glee.  

Featuring more international companies than ever before, the Green Heart will be home to brands such as The Bransford Webb Plant Company, Javado, Armlee Nurseries, Darby Nurseries, Morley Nurseries, Farplants, Craigmarloch Nurseries Ltd, John Richards Nurseries Ltd, Lovania Nurseries Ltd, Porters Fuchsias, Lowaters Nursery, The Plant Yard, Wyevale Nurseries Limited, Florna Plants,  Viking Nurseries, Chamberlain Nurseries, Hawkesmill Nurseries co Ltd, Philip Sonneville, Anglo Aquatic Plant Company, Dataflor, Deforche Export, Helleborous (Wilgenbroek), Herbachef, VDW Plants, Wharton Nurseries, and Worfield Plants - all coming together to create the strongest display of new plant varieties and inspiration for plant buyers and retailers looking to develop both their indoor and outdoor plant offering in the coming season.

First showcased in 2017, the first Flemish pavilion to make its home at Glee - returning as VLAM, the Flanders’ Agricultural Marketing Board - has confirmed its return to the show.  The Flemish Pavilion (Hall 19, stand G30) will be home to a host of seven top growers under the VLAM banner, all ready to showcase their industry leading horticultural products. Many of the Flemish brands will also join Glee’s Green Heart, to demonstrate merchandising best practice, and showcase exciting new plant varieties within indoor plants, cut flowers and different types of young plants.

Plants will also be celebrated through a new award introduced in 2018. The ‘Best Green Heart Display’ award, in partnership with Woodlodge, whilst Garden Trade News’ annual Great Awards will be celebrating the ‘Greatest Awards Best Plant Retailing Team’, which will be announced on Tuesday 11th September, designed to award those plant retailing teams that have gone above and beyond in 2018. 

Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director said: “The Green Heart is a really important part of Glee and is designed to put plants right at the centre of the show, but more than this we want to arm retailers and growers with a platform to communicate – whether in regard to what’s new or how to

better drive sales in-store. It’s set to be a great showcase of UK and international growers, so I urge plant buyers and garden retailers to make this their first port of call at Glee 2018.”

This year Glee has partnered with leading consumer magazine, Grow Your Own, to introduce the prestigious Great British Growing Awards to the show come September.

These awards recognise all that is great within the gardening industry – from tool companies and seed suppliers, to garden writers, fruit nurseries and everything in between. The awards also recognise volunteers and community growing spaces.

The winners of the award will be voted for by the general public and readers of Grow Your Own magazine. The award ceremony and trophy presentation will take place on Tuesday 11^th September at Glee.

In addition to the awards, Glee is working closely with Grow Your Own to develop a consumer competition which will see 10 lucky consumers win the chance to attend Glee. Each winner will enjoy VIP access to Glee, including guided tours, access to the VIP lounge, complimentary refreshments and a limited-edition VIP goody bag.

10 reasons why plant buyers should visit the Glee Green Heart

1. Optimise profit potential of seasonal plants - with seasonal plants being more topical than ever, the Green Heart represents an opportunity to buy high impact lines for immediate delivery and sale.
2. Get inspired – the Green Heart has a wealth of content to inspire plant buyers and retailers alike. From new varieties to exciting merchandising ideas, this thriving part of Glee is a must for garden retailers who want to step up their game when it comes to plant retailing.
3. Network & learn - learn about the latest trends in plant sales and access the newest varieties and new-for-2019 additions whilst networking with industry colleagues in one convenient location.
4. View complementary products – whilst at Glee don’t forget to visit the wider show, using the time to catch up with compost, fertiliser and chemical suppliers to ensure you are up-to-date with the ever-changing ranges and supporting legislation surrounding these core product categories.
5. Linked sales and cross merchandising inspiration – Exhibitors within the Green Heart will demonstrate how to link sales and create successful cross merchandising opportunities that can be quickly and easily implemented instore.
6. Show-only deals - benefit from buying ‘show only’ deals, gaining extra margin and impulse sales potential for your store.
7. Brainstorm – use your time to share your ideas with growers, helping both parties to sell more plants to boost overall sales and profits.
8. Look ahead to 2019 - meet with both UK and international growers to find out more about their plans for the 2018 season.
9. 50+ plant suppliers – this year over 50 plant suppliers, growers and breeders will be showcasing their 2019 ranges and recent introductions within the Green Heart.
10. Follow-up on NPS conversations - finalise details with new contacts initiated at the National Plant Show.

Seasoned Glee exhibitor Deco-Pak is aiming to launch the next big thing in decorative landscaping at this year’s Glee exhibition, by introducing two entirely unique paving options for 2019. 

The latest in a long line of innovations launched exclusively at Glee, each new range is aimed at providing a point of difference for its garden centre retail partners.

Deco-Pak’s Marketing Director Craig Hall says: “Visitors to our stand will see new paving options that utilise cutting edge materials and technology in a way that we believe is an industry first.  

'For retailers these new additions will definitely be something to get their customers excited, whilst also increasing demand for patio landscaping products.  For consumers the main draw for them will be a highly versatile product able to suit any kind of budget and size of garden. 

"Providing decoration whilst also enhancing the functionality of paths and patios in a way you would not expect from a humble paving slab.”

Deco-Pak’s new products will remain under wraps until they are launched to the market exclusively at Glee 2018, with the Glee New Product Showcase a ‘must-do’ for the brand. 

Glee is the company’s main trade show in 2018, and will showcase its award winning ranges on a stand that is 25% larger than the previous year. 

Find out more

Deco-Pak’s Glee profile can be viewed here: https://www.gleebirmingham.com/exhibitors/deco-pak-1?&azletter=D&searchgroup=libraryentry-exhibitors

Garland / Worth Gardening will be launching over 40 new products on its Stand Hall 8 D30-E31 at Glee in 2018. 

New product development has been the key to the company’s success over the past three years, with many new product ideas being driven by feedback and input from customers.  Since the beginning of the year the company’s sales have grown by over 40 per cent and the Glee launches will help to consolidate future growth for the company and its customers.

New products to be launched at Glee 2018 show include:

• A brand new range of rattan furniture covers in the same material as the increasingly popular Super Tough covers range.  The range has been designed with strength and durability as well as to keep up with the current trends in outdoor furniture sales, but at a very pocket -friendly price for the consumer and with a market leading 5 year guarantee.
• Further additions have been made to the Garden Basics range with the launch of wooden and slate plant labels, as well as a new fast flow water butt tap, plastic wall plugs, safety glasses and a new widger and dibber set.  All items that have been requested by customers over the past 12 to 18 months.
• A new 60cm x 120cm rectangular tray has been added to further strengthen Garland/Worth Gardening’s position in the market as the go to company for garden trays, with 38 different trays now available on the extensive range.
• A new seed tray sieve has been added to complement the company’s popular fine mesh and 2 in 1 sieves.  .
• A new boot station has been added to the boot tidy range.  It is the perfect boot cleaning and storing unit, and  includes two stiff boot brushes, a boot scraper bar, a unique boot pick to remove stones and stubborn dirt from the bottom of the boots/shoes as well as a boot pull and storage rack, all wrapped up in a perfectly neat compact unit.
• An addition to the twines and wires range is a new green version of the ever popular bean and pea net.  The 6ft square jute nets are perfect for growing runner beans and peas, and unlike plastic nets the biodegradable jute netting is ecologically beneficial as it can be simply composted at the end of the season.
• Two new large cushion storage bags have been added to the cover ranges, the bags are available in either the Super Tough or Premium fabric and form part of the rattan cover ranges.  The new bags are designed for the ever popular corner sofas and corner dining sets and can fit all of the cushions into one handy storage bag.  The cushion bags are 180cm L x 65cm W x 65cm H

Commenting on the launch, Garland/Worth Gardening’s sales director Mark Dedman said;

 “The launch of these new products is once again the beginning of a very exciting time for the company.  Although the UK garden market has had a tough season, with the weather in the early part holding back sales, the growth we have achieved is no mean feat while at the same time we have maintained over

95 per cent product availability for our customers.

“An important part of our ongoing investment has been in the responsible use of plastic materials.  All of the plastic products in our ranges have always utilised 100 per cent recycled or recyclable plastics, including the product’s packaging.  This ensures that our products are part of the solution to plastic waste, not part of the problem. In addition, our plastic products will be displaying a new label designed to reassure the consumer about the eco benefits of the plastics used in our products.

We still continue to invest heavily in the future and have further warehouse expansion plans over the coming year to ensure that we continue to hold the stock required to provide a first class service to the trade.  We have also invested in new packing machinery this year so we know we will be well placed as a company to cope with all eventualities in the coming season.”

In order to provide further information and support on the company’s complete range of products, the Garland/Worth Gardening’s full sales and marketing team will be on the stand at Glee together with the company’s sales agents representing the whole of the UK and Ireland.

The Garland Products Group specialises in the manufacture of plastic injection moulded products and is one of the fastest growing suppliers to the garden industry.  The products available to both keen and hobby gardeners have been designed through the company’s own experience as keen gardeners.

Renowned chimney manufacturer, Schiedel, will be showcasing its Garden Fireplace at Glee.

Glee brings together the freshest and most exciting brands and products available for landscape architects, garden designers and retailers in the outdoor sector; the perfect platform for Schiedel’s first foray into garden cooking and heating.

The Garden Fireplace, which incorporates Schiedel’s incredibly efficient Isokern system, is perfect for outside spaces. Made of natural pumice, which is cool to the touch, the fireplace offers customers a safe and attractive focal point for the garden, extending the use of outside spaces well into the chilly evenings of autumn.

Al Fresco living and dining continues to be a growing trend and with the option of an additional barbecue grill, the Garden Fireplace transforms any garden into an outdoor kitchen, complete with a chimney to keep the smoke at bay.

Available in four sizes, the Garden Fireplace comes as a complete, easy-to-install package. Once assembled, its freestanding and thanks to the highly insulated pumice sourced from the Hekla Volcano in Iceland, is even safe to use against walls.

With a relatively small footprint, the Garden Fireplace is not only the preserve of those with large plots - an ideal solution for the tiniest garden or courtyard.

David Wright, Residential Sales and Marketing Manager at Schiedel Chimney Systems, said: “With its highly insulated firebox, cooking facilities and sleek rendered finish, the Isokern Garden Fireplace really is a must-have feature for gardens large or small, bringing the comfort of the inside, out; an ideal product to showcase at Glee. Come and see us at stand number 6U21 to find out more!”

For more information on Schiedel’s Garden Fireplace visit: www.schiedel.com/uk

Neudorff’s bestselling products will be renamed with the introduction of a new, more recognisable product family for the 2019 season at Glee 2018.

Products including Pyrol Bug & Larvae Killer, Fast Acting & Long Lasting Weedkiller and Ant Killer products will all follow the same unified naming, offering an improved visual presence in-store whilst helping customers to easily identify each product and its key use at a glance.

Speaking about the updates Neudorff sales director, Jude Beharall said; “Since entering the UK market in 2012 our packaging and product naming has stayed consistent to establish our brand within the retail environment. The increase in listings for our products and improved consumer awareness means we are now in a great position to introduce new names for our key products.”

In addition, visitors to the show will also have the opportunity to find out more about the GIMA Sword of Excellence-winning VineWeevilFree Nematodes. Launched at the show in 2017, the new range, which includes two additional varieties for treating lawn grubs and leatherjackets, is the first of its kind to require no refrigeration, allowing garden centres to sell nematodes straight from the shelf for the first time.

“The nematode products have been really well received by the industry, picking up a Glee New Product Award at the show last year and more recently, VineWeevilFree Nematodes have received the GIMA Sword of Excellence. We are extremely proud of the range and it is a great addition to our weed, feed and control offering,” added Jude.

Neudorff will showcase its entire range at Glee 2018 at stand 6P40-Q41.

For more information visit www.neudorff-trade.co.uk or call 0121 767 1821.

Following the success of last year’s show, STIHL will be returning to Glee to showcase its range of cordless garden tools.

As the popularity of battery powered products continues to rise amongst keen gardeners, STIHL’s Lithium-Ion powered cordless range is designed to meet the needs of domestic users. Delivering high performance, the affordable tools are supplied with either built in or interchangeable Lithium-Ion batteries, making garden tasks even easier to complete.

The full range now includes more than 35 light-weight, well balanced and quiet machines such as; chainsaws, hedge and grass trimmers, pole pruners, long reach hedge trimmers, lawn mowers and much more. These join STIHL’s range of electrical tools including pressure washers, grass and hedge trimmers as well as blowers and vacuum shredders.

Traditionally only available through its network of over 700 garden machinery and forestry specialists, STIHL’s cordless range is now also stocked in select gardening centres throughout the UK, including Dobbies and Hilliers.

Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing at STIHL GB, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to Glee as the show presents the perfect platform to exhibit our range of accessible cordless tools and how they can benefit everyday gardeners. 

“The STIHL Lithium-Ion range and award-winning STIHL Compact Cordless System have proven to be incredibly popular with domestic users, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to the stand to find out more about the products.”

For more information please visit www.stihl.co.uk.

At Glee Daily News we would like to assure you that our Data Processing policies mean we actively mange the security of data we hold and that we never share data with any third party unless prior permission has been granted.

Potting Shed Press, the publishers of GTN and GTN Xtra sends useful information about Glee to a database of recipients who have read Glee Daily News in the past five years and those registered for visiting in 2018.  The last thing we want to be doing is adding to the volume of e-mails landing with people at the moment and also we do not want to get confused with SPAM, which is of course what the GDPR regulations are all about, plus data security too.

If of course you wish to stop receiving Glee Daily News you can do so by clicking the unsubscribe link which appears at the bottom of each issue of the e-mail newsletter and here.

In the meantime, we hope you keep enjoying and benefitting from the e-mail newsletter service we deliver.  See you at Glee!

Potting Shed Press Ltd, the publishers of Glee Daily News on behalf of Glee and ITE Exhibitions, are registered as a data controller with the Information Commissioner's Office under registration reference: ZA248717

A champion of exciting and groundbreaking garden products, the Glee New Product Showcase has earnt an unrivalled industry wide reputation for unearthing the latest in innovation and the future businesses of tomorrow.

Selected from hundreds of entries showcased at the annual show, the winning products are chosen by an expert panel of judges, representing independent and multiple retailers and international suppliers. 

Here we catch up with i-Glo who won an impressive three awards in the highly competitive categories, to see how things have developed for them as a business since Glee 2017.

The North-East company has developed a revolutionary and maintenance-free glow in the dark technology, allowing them to create a range of garden and landscaping products that shine all night after naturally charging in daylight. The i-Glo Decking Disc won the Best of British Award at last year’s Glee, as well as Best Landscaping Product, and the most coveted award of all, Best New Product.

Winning the Best New Product category in the 2017 Awards provided an immediate boost to i-Glo’s business as Director, Mike Storey explains: “We were very proud and honoured to win the awards following three years of extensive research and development. This has given us awareness and respect within the industry almost straight away. Since winning the New Product Awards, we have invested in manufacturing equipment in our North Shields base with an upturn in local jobs.”

With 2018 looking extremely positive for i-Glo, it has not been without its challenges either.   The garden retail sector sat up and took notice of their innovative way to bring areas of decking and paths to life at night, with many retailers wanting to stock them. “The main challenge was to arrive at a business model which is able to work within the garden retail pricing structure," Mike commented. 

Their current production facility also had to be changed and i-Glo found themselves investing in the latest technology within their plant to keep up with the increasing demand for their products following their Glee win.  Mike quickly identified automation as an opportunity for his business and these new processes have resulted in new job creations within the company, as well as minimising rejects and reducing overheads.

The future is certainly looking bright for i-Glo as Mike explains: “We have just completed an exclusive arrangement with leading composite decking manufacturer, Ecodek, enabling us to bring to market and distribute our decking disc within the retail sector. We have added more products to the decking range to satisfy customer requirements including i-Glo paving, edging and stepping stones.”

And what would Mike’s advice be to other start-up businesses looking to emulate i-Glo’s success?  “The route to market is the most important consideration. Identifying a suitable partner company that has the appropriate contacts and connections should be the main priority in order to sell your product and plan your sales.”

Entry into the Glee New Products Showcase is now open and is completely free of charge to all Glee 2018 exhibitors.   

The showcase will feature entries from twelve different product categories:

• Best Retail Services and Experiences Products
• Best Outdoor Entertaining Products
• Best Garden Decoration Products
• Best Home, Gift and Clothing Products
• Best Wildlife and Pets Products
• Best Garden Care - Growing Accessories Products
• Best Garden Care – Chemicals, Fertilisers and Growing Media Products
• Best Plants, Seeds and Bulbs Products
• Best Tools and Machinery Products
• Best Landscaping Products
• Best of British and the Glee Consumer Choice Award, sponsored by Grow Your Own Magazine.  

All entries can be found in a in the New Product Showcase area in Hall 20, with the winners being announced at a special award presentation organised and run by leading trade publication, Garden Trade News.

The Glee Buyers Power List has been 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. Voting has been open since early summer, with nominations flooding in from all corners of the market. Now, details of those shortlisted have been confirmed.

Formed of the top nominations in each of the six categories, the shortlist is representative of the leading buyers and buying teams from retailers across the country. The shortlist is now open to the industry to cast their vote for their top buyers or teams in each category. These votes will then be counted, with the buyer or team with the most votes being crowned as individual category winners during a special Buyers Power List ceremony taking place on Tuesday 11th September at Glee 2018. A ‘winner of winners’ will also be announced at the same ceremony.

Voting for the top buyer or teams featured in the Glee Buyers Power List shortlist closes on August 24th. Casting your vote couldn’t be easier. Simply log onto www.gleebirmingham.com/visit/glee-buyers-power-list to make your vote matter. Voting is open to everyone in the industry.

Best Independent Garden Centre

Almondsbury Garden Centre

Alton Garden Centre

Aylett Nurseries

Barton Grange Garden Centre

Bents Garden & Home

Burford Garden Centre

Chessington Garden Centre

Fron Gogh Garden Centre

Highfield Garden Centre

Holly Bush Garden Centre

Mains of Drum

Monkton Elm Garden Centre

Old Railway Line Garden Centre

Perrywood Garden Centre

Best Multiple Garden Centre

Blue Diamond Garden Centres

British Garden Centres

Caulders Garden Centre

Choice Marketing

Creative Gardens

Haskins Garden Centres

Hillview Garden Centres

Klondyke

Longacres

Millbrook

Notcutts

Scotsdales

Squires Garden Centres

Stewarts Garden Centres

Best DIY / Builder Merchant Buyer/Buying Team

B&Q

Homebase

Jewson

Stax

Toolstation

Travis Perkins

Wickes

Best Online Buyer/ Buying Team

Amazon

Crocus

Gardensite

Greenfingers

Primrose

RHS

Richard Jacksons Garden

Tesco Direct

Waitrose

Wayfair

NEW FOR 2018 - Best Supermarket / Department Store Buyer/Buying Team

Argos

John Lewis

M&S

Morrisons

Sainsbury's

Tesco

Waitrose

Talking about the Buyers Power List, Glee’s Event Director, Matthew Mein said: “The Buyers Power List has fast become an integral part of Glee, and the results of this year’s awards are already highly anticipated. The shortlist showcases the hard work and commitment that each retail buyer or team has undertaken in the last 12 months, and we’re so pleased to be able to provide a platform on which this dedication can be celebrated and rewarded. I look forward to revealing the winners at Glee 2018.”

Pet suppliers looking to maximise the boom in pet product sales within garden centres will find their home within Glee’s dedicated Pets at Glee sector.

Supported by the PetQuip Business Village and featuring exhibitors within the wider parts of the show, Pets at Glee will showcase the newest product innovation from a range of suppliers including

• Scruffs
• Petface
• Royal Canin
• Unipet
• GA Pet Foods
• RSPCA
• The Barking Bakery
• Pawtato Dog Chews
• Tweedmill Textiles
• The First Class Pet Company
• Mud Daddy
• Jacobi Jayne & Company
• Lintbells

A ‘Pets at Glee’ entrance (Hall 19) will drive retailers right into the heart of the pet area, whilst a special pet seminar stage will also be making its debut at the show.

Marking a significant investment for this new era of Pets at Glee, the seminar stage will offer insight into the latest trends shaping the pet care sector such as the humanisation and premiumisation of pet products, as well as interactive content that can be implemented instore to boost pet care within the garden retail environment.

As activity ramps up for Glee 2018, GIMA is encouraging new business and innovators to consider entering the 2018 GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund, with this year’s winner being unveiled at the annual exhibition.

Introduced in 2014, the fund offers the winner an unrivalled prize package, including a £6,000 grant andhelp with development and marketingtheir product to the UK garden retail sector.

Included within this prize fund is a year’s full GIMA membership, plus a wide range of business support tools designed to help ease the journey into a new and unfamiliar market place,such as free exhibition space at Glee (up to the value of £2,000), access to a leading business consultancy, one-year ACID (Anti Copying In Design) membership and a half page advert in the next GIMA Product Digest.

Since its inauguration,fourhighly deserving winners have been crowned,allof which have gone on to witness significant core growth.

Last year’s winners were the clean technology company,bio-bean,who have industrialised the process of recycling spent coffee grounds into advanced biofuels and biochemicals. It was the company’s Coffee Logs that captured the attention of the judges in 2017 thanks to its simplicity and environmentally friendly nature.

Talking about their win, a representative from bio-bean said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have won – as a growing start-up with a new product this support will help us take our business to the next level.”

Businesses interested in entering the GIMA Innovators Seed Corn Fund in 2018 are invited to do so by visiting http://gima.org.uk/innovators-seed-corn-fund/ and completing the online application form ahead of the August 17^th deadline.

Woodlodge has announced it will once again be raising money for Greenfingers Charity at Glee 2018 by hosting a raffle in aid of this worthy cause.

Proudly celebrating its seventh year of support for Greenfingers, Woodlodge will sell raffle tickets throughout Glee, donating the cash raised to the charity dedicated to creating magical gardens for children who spend time in hospices. This year’s prize comprises of an exceptional selection of Prosecco piled high in a prestigious extra-large pot, from the company’s Heritage Garden collection. 

Exhibitors and attendees alike are encouraged to look out for the prize at Woodlodge’s stand (6T30-U31 and 6T40-U41) and around the Glee halls to enter the competition and learn more about the charity. Raffle tickets will be available to purchase from Greenfingers Charity (on HTA’s stand 19P69) and Woodlodge representatives at the event.

Michael Wooldridge, Managing Director at Woodlodge, comments: “Greenfingers is a very valuable organisation and we’re pleased to be supporting its inspiring work again at Glee this year. We’re hoping that our pot of prosecco will tempt visitors and increase awareness and support for Greenfingers.”

Linda Petrons, Head of Fundraising & Communications at Greenfingers Charity, comments: “We’ve had a wonderful year working with our friends at Woodlodge who provide support in so many ways. The raffle is a much-loved feature at Glee and we look forward to congratulating the winner and sharing with the market the amount of money it raises.”

Find out more

Woodlodge will be exhibiting in Hall 6, (stands 6T30-U31 and 6T40-U41).  To find out more about how Woodlodge’s market leading product offering, please visit www.woodlodge.co.uk

With a growing concern about the safety of children and pets when using garden care products such as pesticides, plant food or cleaners, Sipcam UK has teased some new additions to its ecofective® Child and Pet safe range, set to be launched at Glee this September. 

The current range will expand to include a new Liquid Lawn Feed, containing a unique natural formula ideal for family lawns.  Available in a 1.5 litre bottle, the feed is simply diluted in a watering can or sprayer, making it easy to apply, creating less mess and waste.The ingredients result in a quicker uptake of nutrients, creating a lush, green lawn in no time for families to enjoy.

Due to demand, a larger 1.5 litre bottle of Artificial Grass Cleaner concentrate will also be launched.  Containing a unique dual-action formula which is naturally derived from surfactants and advanced probiotics (friendly bacteria), the ready to use solution washes away grease, grime and dirt, even mess residue left by pets, and leaves millions of microorganisms to feed on any remaining dirt, providing a long-lasting effect.

Nigel Thompson of Sipcam UK said: “There has been a positive reaction to our Child and Pet Safe ranges since we first launched them at Glee in 2017, with the product portfolio continuing to expand to meet demand.  This is due to a common misconception amongst consumers that all pesticides and fertilisers in garden care products are harmful which is not the case. ecofective® use naturally derived ingredients which leave no residual effect on the environment, making the treated area instantly safe for all the family, wildlife and beneficial insects like bees.”

The liquid Lawn Feed and Artificial Grass Cleaner concentrate will sit beside ecofective’s® current range of Child and Pet Safe products which include a non-pesticide Bug & Mildew Control spray for use on flowers, fruit and vegetables, non-toxic Slug Defence granules, a natural ingredients granular Lawn Feed + Root Enhancer, ROOTplus 3 in 1 organic root enhancer, water retainer and fertiliser, organic Wonder Feed concentrate, organic Pour and Feed that can be used both indoors and outdoors, as well a RTU Artificial Grass Cleaner.

ecofective’s® other natural solutions for complete garden care are WeedBlast & Weed + Moss Killer which are formulated from acetic acid, Path, Patio and Decking Cleaner also from the acetic acid range, Bug Killer contains pyrethrin/fatty acid with NO neonicotinoids, pet re-trainer Cat and Dog Repellent, Mouse Killer a none anticoagulant, natural and organicHouseplant BOOST ‘Pour and Feed’, non-pesticide Houseplant Defender and Rose Defender.

ecofective® will be exhibiting at Glee on stand 8D81.  

Further details about Sipcam UK and its award-winning ecofective® product portfolio can be found at www.ecofective.uk.com.

New Glastonbury based paint company Thorndown, has developed and created two new unique paint ranges for the home and garden. 

Their revolutionary new Peelable Glass Paint is made using a 100% recycled plastics resin and is perfect for greenhouse shading, but also great inside the home for conservatory shading or privacy screening on over-looked windows. 

Scope for the arts & crafts market is vast as this water-based, virtually VOC free, non-toxic paint can also be used for festive decorating on windows, stencilling, and creating stained glass windows cheaply and easily. 

Ben Thornborough from Thorndown says “Our unique Peelable Glass Paint makes very effective shading and it is pretty addictive too. Like us, customers will be thinking about what they can paint next and as it comes from recycled plastic waste that previously went into land fill, the satisfaction and enjoyment from using it is all the greater”.

Thorndown’s new high-performing water-based Wood Paint uses the latest in technology, with an advanced water-repellent resin plus exterior grade colour pigments that are VOC free and long-lasting. Developed for all types of exterior timber it can be used anywhere and on anything out in the garden or inside the home. 

Thorndown’s Managing Director Ben Thornborough says, “I had become increasingly frustrated by the unnecessary complexity of the woodcare category. The trend to create sub categories of sub categories only serves to confuse the customer further, and take up valuable shelf space instore. So we carefully crafted our paints to be so versatile and easy to use the only decision a customer has to make is which colour to choose.

"Professionals and home consumers rave about the Wood Paint as the best in the market for ease of use and performance. Using the latest VOC free technologies we have created a paint that can be used on any wood, anywhere; decking, sheds & summerhouses, garden furniture, kitchen cabinets, interior floors, and furniture. It’s a new type of wood care product that needs little preparation, is simple and easy to use and crosses all categories making it the only wood finish a store would need to stock.”

Director of Design, Caroline says “I’ve been an avid painter for many years and love getting stuck into painting projects inside and out in the garden. We have created a range of tins that not only look gorgeous but have practical improvements too.

"Our unique tins are wider making them easier to and more stable when in use. We have left plenty of room from the paint line to the top of the tin so that when you stir your brand-new paint tin, half of the paint doesn’t end up being slopped all down the sides of the tin. 

"Core colour charts for both ranges ensure that popular and heritage tones are represented, along with primary colours that enable people to create their own shades by mixing colours together. At each stage of development we have ensured that simplicity and detailed thought combine to create a range of products that are fun and easy to use.”

Thorndown will be exhibiting their range of eco water-based Wood Paint and Peelable Glass Paint along with POS solutions at Glee Birmingham NEC, Hall 6 stand number 6S88 from 10th to 12th September 2018.