PATS has announced the launch of a new Hosted Buyer Programme for its 2026 edition, with registration now officially open. This initiative facilitates curated, face-to-face meetings between senior retail buyers and exhibitors. Read more - open to all

The  Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) is supporting UK growers with R&D into two areas where pressure continues to mount: the move away from peat and the shrinking toolbox of plant protection products (PPPs). Read more - members only

The Garden Centre Association (GCA) is hosting a free members’ webinar next week (April 24, 2026) examining the latest changes to business rates and the industry’s ongoing engagement with the Government.

RHS unveils the line-up for the debut RHS Badminton Flower Show on the Badminton Estate from 8–12 July 2026, celebrating restorative gardens for people and the planet. Read more - members only

SOLEX launches summer in style as its third annual Awards & Afterparty returns to Birmingham’s NEC on 7 July 2026, reimagined as the SOLEX World Cup Awards Night celebration. Read more - open to all

J. Parker’s hosted a Women in Horticulture morning at Daisy Nook Garden Centre, featuring speakers from Northern Lily, Perennial and RHS, inspiring networking and industry insight.

Opperman Plants Ltd, the Lincolnshire‑based plant supplier, has entered administration after almost 30 years in business, with advisers now seeking a buyer while the company continues to trade. Read more - members only

STIGA has secured three iF DESIGN AWARD 2026 titles, recognising excellence across its latest robotic mowing and digital solutions. Read more - open to all

The countdown is officially on. The GIMA Awards are returning on Thursday 12th November, bringing the garden retail industry together once again to recognise the ideas, innovation and people shaping the sector right now. Read more - open to all

March 2025 was the 3^rd sunniest on record, so Garden Centres should be pleased that last month’s sales nearly matched.  However, additional cost pressures mean double digit growth is needed, says HTA. Read more - members only

Plant Heritage joins Big Give Earth Raise 2026 aiming to raise £10,000 for plant conservation, supported by HelenLikesPlants and the Planting Design Collective ahead of RHS Chelsea.

Squire’s Garden Centres’ accounts for the financial year ending July 31, 2025 show strong sales and profits growth in a period of acquisitions and investment. Read more - members only