Garden centre sales up despite ongoing cost pressures
Horticultural Trades Association reports February garden centre sales rose 4%, driven by strong plant sales and footfall, despite ongoing cost pressures and cautious outlook for the 2026 season.
Read more - members only
HTA warns of postcode lottery with recycling of plant pots
Millions of gardeners could face inconsistent recycling services at the end of March unless local authorities update their guidance to reflect new national rules on plastic plant pots, the HTA has warned. Read more - members only
Spoga+gafa moves to September from 2027 onwards
After consulting with exhibitors Spoga+gafa in Cologne will change dates to the first weeks of September from 2027. The 2026 show will proceed as planned from June 22 to 24. Read more - members only
Expansion, fires and sales shape garden centre news
Garden centre sector sees expansion plans approved, restaurants reopening and new openings, a centre offered for sale, redevelopment proposals submitted and retailers investing in technology following fires and rising retail theft. Read more - members only
Blue Diamond acquires Leaf Garden Centre from administrators
Blue Diamond Garden Centres has bought the business of Leaf Garden Centre, following its entry into administration at the end of February. Read more - members only
Landscape bodies align to implement new British standard
Landscape and garden design organisations take first steps towards a collaboration aimed at raising standards, strengthening professionalism and increasing client confidence in the quality of domestic landscaping. Read more - members only
Opperman Plants files notice of intention to appoint administrators
Lincolnshire grower Opperman Plants has filed a Notice of Intention (NOI) to appoint administrators as financial pressures mount on the long‑established nursery. Read more - members only
Martin Ward to become the new Director of GIMA
GIMA has announced the appointment of Martin Ward as its new Director, succeeding Vicky Nuttall, beginning a new chapter for the trade association representing garden and horticultural suppliers. Read more - members only
The restaurant investment at Weyhill points to the future for Hillier
Betty Hillier, 6th generation descendant of the founders, cut the ribbon on the Weyhill restaurant relaunch, offering the first glimpse into plans to elevate the Hillier profile. Read more - members only
At last, BGC completes purchase of Alton Garden Centre
The delayed purchase of Alton Garden centres by BGC, announced today, sees another of the sector’s great characters retire from the sector. Read more - members only
Trade restrictions lifted as Phytophthora pluvialis now deemed low‑risk
Trade restrictions on the movement of conifer species have been lifted across 7 English counties after confirmation that Phytophthora pluvialis no longer meets the criteria for quarantine pest status. Read more - members only
Growers look ahead at Frank Matthews open day
Roots to Retail visitors were welcomed to Frank P Matthews in Tenbury Wells by Bransford Webbs and New Leaf Plants, marking its 125th anniversary and recent investments. Read more - members only
