Mims: A pot supplier that understands your business
For almost 40 years, Mims has been helping independent garden centres build successful profitable pot departments. In a category where many retailers feel like they’re all stocking the same ranges, Mims offers something different: a supplier that understands how garden retail works, what customers respond to, and how to create a pottery offer that delivers dependable sales season after season.
Outdoor pottery has become increasingly competitive, which is why the Mims approach is refreshingly simple – give retailers products that sell, prices that work, and support that makes a measurable difference on the shop floor.
Built on decades of retail understanding
Mims recognises that independent garden centres are not one‑size‑fits‑all and has spent decades working with retailers across the UK and Ireland, curating ranges around space, footfall, customer demographic and realistic sales potential.
As Managing Director, Mimi Milne puts it: “We look after the money the customer gives us.” That ethos runs through everything Mims does – from responsible selling to tailored ranging – ensuring retailers get the right mix for their business, not simply the biggest order.
Guaranteed performers at competitive prices
Retailers need confidence, especially in high‑volume categories. Mims’ experience in the market means it knows exactly which designs deliver repeat sales, strong value and reliable turnover. These are the bread‑and‑butter lines that garden centres depend on; the pots that fly off the shelves, even in challenging seasons.
This thinking is the foundation of Mims Icons, a curated selection of eight proven collections that have demonstrated longevity, repeat ordering and strong consumer appeal. Showcased at Glee last month, Icons give retailers a ready‑made starting point built on real‑world sales data, not guesswork.
High‑volume favourites, such as Blossom, Bella, Ring and Kahari provide dependable turnover, while Old Stone and Westcott offer distinctive, artisan finishes that create theatre and stand‑out – ideal for retailers wanting something customers won’t see everywhere else.
Distinctive design that sets retailers apart
While value and volume matter, differentiation is becoming increasingly important. The broader Mims portfolio, spanning glazed, terracotta, artisan, oversized planters and water features, gives retailers the ability to build displays that feel fresh, individual and commercially strong.
The Mims offer is always brimming with exclusive designs, giving retailers the reassurance that their pottery offer will stand out in a crowded market and offer customers something they won’t see everywhere else.
Many Mims designs have stunning craftsmanship stories behind them. Westcott, for example, is hand finished with individually applied slate pieces, making each pot unique. Meanwhile, Old Stone is fired then sand‑blasted to reveal layered stone textures. These ranges help retailers create destination displays that stand apart from competitors who are all stocking similar imported lines.
A merchandising service that transforms sales
One of the company’s greatest strengths is its national merchandising team. These specialists work directly in garden centres to create displays that are visually strong, easy to shop and commercially effective. From the get-go, Mims will always sell responsibly, assessing space, location and sales potential before recommending the right product mix to new customers. It is then the merchandising team’s job to bring that to life on the shop floor, ensuring displays stay fresh, tidy and fully stocked throughout the season. Not only does this help improve shoppability and help maximise sales, it removes a huge operational burden from garden centre teams.
Flexible ordering designed around independents
Mims ordering options have been designed to support independent retailers who want variety without over‑committing. Mixed pallets, carton‑quantity ordering and tailored ranging allow centres to introduce new lines, test customer appetite and maintain breadth without tying up cash in excessive stock.
This is another example of the Mims core philosophy: make the range work around the retailer, not the other way round.
Mims is investing in long‑term support for retailers and remains committed to innovation, integrity and genuine partnership. A partner for long-term growth, Mims can help retailers build a pot category with confidence – combining value, proven performers and unique designs.
Find out more
For more information, email sales@mimspottery.com, call 0141 336 4970 or visit www.mimspottery.com.