Covid-19 update - GIMA Awards cancelled
GIMA cancels this year’s GIMA Awards
GIMA decides to cancel this year’s GIMA Awards that were due to be held on 16th July.
The Association for Garden Suppliers said, “Whilst the health and wellbeing of everyone in our sector is our main concern, it would also not be appropriate to be planning a celebration at a time when many of our members and their customers have had to temporarily close their businesses during their key trading time.
“We would like to wish all our members and their customers the very best wishes at what is a difficult time for everyone…”
HTA has announced a 3-month subscription payment holiday
HTA Chairman James Barnes said “Garden industry businesses are being hard hit by the current COVID-19 situation, in what would ordinarily be the peak trading period for the sector. At a time when financial pressures on businesses are so great, it was unanimously agreed at yesterday’s HTA Board meeting that a 3-month payment subscription holiday for all members would be actioned immediately.”
Garden centres shouldn't open, but if they have a food shop...
Yesterday, the HTA reported: - Government officials have confirmed to us today that garden centres shouldn’t open, but if they have a food shop or foodhall, then they do qualify under the food provision criteria to open. As the HTA we’re making representations to Government that garden centres should be in the first cohort of businesses allowed to restart trading.
Cherry Lane Garden Centres extend opening hours
Cherry Lane Garden Centres say, “We are taking the spread of the coronavirus extremely seriously. Regular planning meetings are taking place so that we can adapt to the developing situation. We will continue to stay close to the government advice.
“We are doing everything in our power to keep our shelves stocked, particularly with essential grocery, household, personal care and pet food products.
“Ongoing programme of community support, we will be opening all of our stores half an hour earlier Monday to Saturday between 8:30 and 9:00 o'clock, a time slot dedicated to our elderly customers.”