Our e-learning GROWs with festive modules

We have recently released two festive modules as part of our e-learning initiative Garden Retail Online Workshops (GROW).

The latest modules for the scheme, which helps member garden centres keep their customer service at the highest standards, include real Christmas and artificial Christmas trees.

Our Chief Executive, Iain Wylie said: “Christmas is one of the busiest times at our member garden centres. With Christmas trees being one of the main selling points it is important staff are able to competently help customers and answer any questions they may have, which is why we released these two modules ahead of this important selling period.

Hurry...to get your conference place!

IF YOU are wishing to attend our annual conference in January (2014) sign up soon to secure your place.

The conference, which takes place from January 26 until 29, 2014 at the Hilton Blackpool Hotel will include talks from top speakers, latest news from the industry and networking opportunities.

Our Chief Executive, Iain Wylie, said: “We have had a great run on bookings and numbers so far and expect this year’s conference to be one of our biggest and best yet. Places are filling up fast so if you want to secure a place we suggest getting in touch soon to avoid disappointment.

Christmas displays that sparkle

Here are the regional winners of our annual Christmas display competition 2013.

Twelve garden centres have been named as having the best Christmas displays in their region. The two overall winners will be announced at our annual conference in January.

Expert in multi-channel retailing at our conference

AN EXPERT in multi-channel retailing will be presenting at our annual conference in January (2014) to help us all get behind the digital age.

David Oliver, a partner in PwC’s Retail Consulting team, will be focusing on giving attendees advice on how they can embrace digital transformation by integrating e-commerce with store channels.

More sponsors for our annual GCA conference

BORD na Móna and Hozelock have signed up as secondary sponsors for our annual conference taking place in January next year (2014).

The two companies join Davidson Richards and Westland Horticulture, which are the headline sponsors for the event.

Our Chief Executive, Iain Wylie, said: “It’s wonderful having such well-known brands and names associated with our conference, which is fast becoming the best event of the gardening year when it comes to getting together with likeminded industry-folk.