HOZELOCK IS NAMED MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR
Birmingham-based Hozelock has been named Manufacturer of the Year in
the prestigious annual awards sponsored by The Manufacturer magazine.
The market-leading garden watering, spraying and aquatics company also
scooped the awards for Design & Innovation (sponsored by Technology
Strategy Board) and Supply Chain & Logistics (sponsored by KPMG) at a
glittering awards ceremony last night (Thursday 12 November) at The
Tower hotel in London.
These awards come hot on the heels of a Manufacturing Excellence Award
in June from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers which was the
third MX Award bestowed on the company in the past three years.
So the company's 250 employees find themselves not only the toast of
Birmingham but also the most decorated workforce in Britain.
What's more, Hozelock has beaten the recession in 2009 by notching up
strong sales growth and increased market share as a result of
extensive marketing and promotional activity. Industry analysts, GfK
reported that the garden watering business grew by 14.8% in 2009 with
Hozelock increasing its market share to almost 70%.
And it is looking to grow further in 2010 having invested £1.5m this
year in new tooling and moulding for a raft of new products including
metal hose fittings, a metal hose cart and an Aquaforce range of pond
pumps. It is also in the process of establishing a nationwide network
of retail Centres of Excellence and has committed a further £2m to
advertising and promotion of its innovative Auto Reel and other
products in the spring, including a TV campaign.
"It has been a fantastic year for the company," said Managing
Director, Peter Rush, "and to cap it all by being voted Manufacturer
of the Year is a tremendous result for everybody in the business."
Other well-known companies on the awards shortlists included Glen
Dimplex, Michelin Tyres, Morgan Motor Company, Linpac Packaging and
Kerrygold Foods.
"All of our employees have worked their socks off this year and it is
a credit to them that we have received this wonderful accolade, in the
face of stiff competition from some of Britain's biggest and most
successful companies," said Mr Rush.
"Our volatile, seasonal business makes for exceptional demands from
our trade customers and from consumers," he went on. "We always have
to work hard to get everything right and on time – from product design
and testing through to manufacturing and distribution. We are thrilled
that it is proving to be such a successful formula."
Hozelock, who have also celebrated their 50th anniversary this year,
operate from a huge, state-of-the-art 33,400 sq m manufacturing and
distribution facility in Midpoint Park, Sutton Coldfield.
Saturday, 14 November 2009
Tuesday, 20 October 2009
GIMA confirms unanimous support for Glee
GIMA (Garden Industry Manufacturers Association) has announced that its members have unanimously voted to confirm their support for Glee and vowed to place their full weight behind the September event both now and long into the future. GIMA has subsequently agreed beneficial pricing for members exhibiting at the show.
Following the GIMA Business Meeting on 7th October, seventy five attending Full Members unanimously confirmed, in a closed session, their preference for one key garden trade exhibition - Glee. The show’s September timing, size, accessibility and facilities at the NEC, coupled with the show’s heritage, expertise and focus on developing a profitable, effective and valuable show for the industries it represents has cemented its position as the show for GIMA members.
Neil Gow, Director of GIMA said:
“GIMA has been a supporting trade association of Glee for many years, and having consulted with our members in a democratic process we have reconfirmed our commitment to this event. Our members have given a clear mandate for one, effective trade exhibition where both supplier budgets and buyer’s time can be put to best effect. In other words, Glee is the show for us. It’s Glee that is the right show at the right time to fit production and buying cycles, and it is in the right place.
Our industry has had a tough few years, primarily thanks to the weather and the economic situation, however as Glee 2009 clearly proved it can adapt to these changes.
But importantly, Glee also has critical mass, great networking opportunities, and a proven track record as the strongest show of its kind and that is what our industry needs. We have talked to many of the suppliers who exhibited at this years show, and some of those who didn’t. We have also used our detailed industry knowledge and network to feel the pulse of buyers and exhibitors who are united in their view. GIMA’s new, exclusive agreement with Glee acts on our members’ wishes, and supports them with the best package, ensuring buyers will get the show they need and want.”
In response to GIMA’s unwavering support of Glee, an exclusive package has been put together to ensure that GIMA members exhibiting at Glee will be guaranteed an additional return on their investment – which combined with Glee’s established ability to deliver thousands of quality buyers from home and abroad, will ensure optimum exhibiting value.
Glee show director Daniel Thurlow commented:
“We are delighted to have GIMA’s exclusive support, as well as the positive feedback of so many exhibitors and buyers since September. There are many common goals between Glee and GIMA and we will continue working together closely to deliver a show that works hard for the industry, as well as ultimately channelling energies towards getting the public gardening. Brands and buyers alike see the business sense of ‘one show, one industry’ and more people are backing that proposition every day.”
GIMA member Westland Horticulture who were represented at the Business Meeting by their Sales Manager Ken Evans, echoes the views of both Neil Gow and Glee show director, Daniel Thurlow. He said:
Following the GIMA Business Meeting on 7th October, seventy five attending Full Members unanimously confirmed, in a closed session, their preference for one key garden trade exhibition - Glee. The show’s September timing, size, accessibility and facilities at the NEC, coupled with the show’s heritage, expertise and focus on developing a profitable, effective and valuable show for the industries it represents has cemented its position as the show for GIMA members.
Neil Gow, Director of GIMA said:
“GIMA has been a supporting trade association of Glee for many years, and having consulted with our members in a democratic process we have reconfirmed our commitment to this event. Our members have given a clear mandate for one, effective trade exhibition where both supplier budgets and buyer’s time can be put to best effect. In other words, Glee is the show for us. It’s Glee that is the right show at the right time to fit production and buying cycles, and it is in the right place.
Our industry has had a tough few years, primarily thanks to the weather and the economic situation, however as Glee 2009 clearly proved it can adapt to these changes.
But importantly, Glee also has critical mass, great networking opportunities, and a proven track record as the strongest show of its kind and that is what our industry needs. We have talked to many of the suppliers who exhibited at this years show, and some of those who didn’t. We have also used our detailed industry knowledge and network to feel the pulse of buyers and exhibitors who are united in their view. GIMA’s new, exclusive agreement with Glee acts on our members’ wishes, and supports them with the best package, ensuring buyers will get the show they need and want.”
In response to GIMA’s unwavering support of Glee, an exclusive package has been put together to ensure that GIMA members exhibiting at Glee will be guaranteed an additional return on their investment – which combined with Glee’s established ability to deliver thousands of quality buyers from home and abroad, will ensure optimum exhibiting value.
Glee show director Daniel Thurlow commented:
“We are delighted to have GIMA’s exclusive support, as well as the positive feedback of so many exhibitors and buyers since September. There are many common goals between Glee and GIMA and we will continue working together closely to deliver a show that works hard for the industry, as well as ultimately channelling energies towards getting the public gardening. Brands and buyers alike see the business sense of ‘one show, one industry’ and more people are backing that proposition every day.”
GIMA member Westland Horticulture who were represented at the Business Meeting by their Sales Manager Ken Evans, echoes the views of both Neil Gow and Glee show director, Daniel Thurlow. He said:
“Westland believe that GLEE should be the premier gardening show in Europe, our main concern with the possibility of having two shows is that the industry should be pulling together not fragmenting, especially in times of difficult trading. GLEE in our opinion has the best venue and facilities to put on a show of this calibre. GLEE are working harder to make the show more affordable and support exhibitors to improve the return on their investment in attending and hopefully by doing this, it will entice back the companies that have moved away from the show . The retailers we have spoken to also want a strong GLEE but have to do their bit to support the manufacturers that invest in the event.”
GIMA represents suppliers to the garden retail industry from all supply sectors including gifts, compost, plants, indoor and outdoor furniture, machinery and foodstuffs. The membership includes the biggest names and brands of UK and EU based companies, as well as very many smaller businesses, and represents the major share of all the key sectors in the market. The combined total turnover of members' businesses at retail selling level is now in excess of £1.5 billion annually. For more information visit http://www.gima.org.uk/ or email info@gima.org.uk
Sunday, 11 October 2009
Go Organic & Reap the Fruits of your Labour
Eat greens and be green!
From Dobbies
By growing plants free from artificial chemicals we can produce fruit and vegetables without worrying about the negatives effects to ourselves or the environment. The health benefits of eating ‘5-a-day’ are undisputed and many believe that going organic means even fresher, more nutritious fruit and vegetables.
Saving the earth can save money too! Growing your own fruit and vegetables is cheaper than buying expensive, often imported organic food. It also reduces environmental pollution caused by ‘food miles’. Home-made compost cuts out expense at the same time as recycling household waste. And there are many DIY ways to conserve water such as collecting rainwater in a water butt or recycling your waste water, an increasingly essential practice in our world today.
Perfect Ponds Made Simple
Whether you’re an avid fish keeper or are simply looking to add an interesting feature to your garden, these are the first steps to achieving the ideal garden pond.
Firstly, you will need to decide what size you want your pond to be and where to position it. Once you have decided on this – you’ll need to start digging!
Dobbies would recommend a two inch layer of sand in the bottom of the hole, followed by a good layer of pond fleece, such as that made by Oase. This will help to protect your pond liner from any sharp stones that may pierce the bottom of your pond, due to the pressure of the water when full.
Once you have your sand and fleece in place, it’s time to install the liner. A handy tip is to keep the liner taut when you start filling the pond with water as this will reduce the likelihood of creases if you have an informal shaped pond. Dobbies would recommend using a good quality liner such as Oase Alfafol or Firestone Butyl liner, which comes with a lifetime guarantee. Once the pond is full you will need to add a dechlorinator such as Fresh Start by Interpet or Water Safe by Tetra, both of which are specially formulated for garden ponds.
If you intend to keep fish in your pond, the next step is to install a pump and filter. Try to choose a filter which has an ultra violet clarifier incorporated into it, as this will guarantee clear water. As the water passes through the quartz tube it is exposed to an ultra violet light which kills any water borne algae. We would recommend using one of the Bioforce UVC filter from Hozelock Cyprio. Using these filters in conjunction with one of the Aquaforce from Hozelock would be a good combination, as both of these are solids handling pumps, which means they can pump small particles through without getting blocked with debris.
Finally, to complete your garden pond there is a wide range of pond plants available, from under water oxygenators; to beautiful pond lilies for the surface .
Firstly, you will need to decide what size you want your pond to be and where to position it. Once you have decided on this – you’ll need to start digging!
Dobbies would recommend a two inch layer of sand in the bottom of the hole, followed by a good layer of pond fleece, such as that made by Oase. This will help to protect your pond liner from any sharp stones that may pierce the bottom of your pond, due to the pressure of the water when full.
Once you have your sand and fleece in place, it’s time to install the liner. A handy tip is to keep the liner taut when you start filling the pond with water as this will reduce the likelihood of creases if you have an informal shaped pond. Dobbies would recommend using a good quality liner such as Oase Alfafol or Firestone Butyl liner, which comes with a lifetime guarantee. Once the pond is full you will need to add a dechlorinator such as Fresh Start by Interpet or Water Safe by Tetra, both of which are specially formulated for garden ponds.
If you intend to keep fish in your pond, the next step is to install a pump and filter. Try to choose a filter which has an ultra violet clarifier incorporated into it, as this will guarantee clear water. As the water passes through the quartz tube it is exposed to an ultra violet light which kills any water borne algae. We would recommend using one of the Bioforce UVC filter from Hozelock Cyprio. Using these filters in conjunction with one of the Aquaforce from Hozelock would be a good combination, as both of these are solids handling pumps, which means they can pump small particles through without getting blocked with debris.
Finally, to complete your garden pond there is a wide range of pond plants available, from under water oxygenators; to beautiful pond lilies for the surface .
Watering Industry Exhibition Schedule
All this information is sourced from Irrigazette
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Greg Dyke (BBC DG) Speech to Chelsea Flower Show in 2003
Thank you very much for inviting me today.
There are some things in life that are predictable and others are not. If someone had told me 20 years ago that I'd be Guest of Honour at the Chelsea Flower Show I doubt I'd have believed it.
My only regret about today is that my father is no longer alive to see this. As a keen gardener he would either have collapsed laughing or just shaken his head saying, "Chelsea isn't what it used to be".
My father spent many hours at the end of our garden. It didn't always seem productive but for him, as for so many gardeners, it was the best escape from his wife and three children.
Unlike my two brothers, I did not inherit either his interest or talent for gardening, so Chelsea is a revelation to me.
It has always seemed interesting to me that despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that most people in the UK live in towns or cities there is enormous and seemingly increasing enthusiasm for gardening.
Somehow the notion of a green and pleasant land is hardwired into the British psyche, even if many people's own patch of green is limited to a window box or roof terrace.
What I do understand about gardening is that firstly it increasingly dominates BBC TWO's schedules and secondly that the BBC gardening presenters seem to end up as the most unlikely sex symbols.
A bit like the visual arts, however, horticulture can arouse strong passions amongst enthusiasts whilst at the same time being a little intimidating and mysterious for the uninitiated like me.
The BBC tries to satisfy both the keen and knowledgeable gardener as well as bringing new audiences to gardening and hopefully, over time, encouraging everyone to take their interest in gardening further.
From Ground Force which is watched by many including those who don't even have a garden, to Gardeners' World, relaunched with Monty Don, a new sex symbol in the making I hear, for the more committed gardener, the BBC aims to cater for all levels of interest and expertise.
Which brings me to why I am here today apart from annoying my late father.
The Chelsea Flower Show is of course the Wimbledon of the horticultural calendar, although the British seem to do rather better at Chelsea than they do at tennis.
I'm sure I was invited because the BBC will be broadcasting coverage of Chelsea on BBC ONE, BBC TWO, Radio 4 and just about every local radio station.
There will also be extensive coverage online on our gardening website.
We never forget that although Chelsea happens in the south east, it is very much a regional, national and even worldwide event with hundreds of passionate gardeners and growers each making their personal pilgrimage here. This year even Songs of Praise will be coming from the bandstand in Ranleigh Gardens.
Mind you, changing television technology offers more possibilities than ever.
Our interactive coverage of Chelsea on digital television, first launched last year, has tours of every one of the show gardens and in depth interviews with each designer.
Now you can explore the gardens in much more detail from the comfort of your own armchair - and you don't even have to strain your neck to see over the heads of people in front of you especially if you're short like me.
What you may not know is that the BBC's co-operation with the RHS goes much further than bringing Chelsea to the nation.
For instance, without an enormous contribution of expertise from the RHS the 'How to be a gardener' online gardening courses would never have been the success they are.
These educational resources have encouraged thousands of people to learn more about the basics of gardening and garden design and by doing so introduce a whole new generation of people to what must be one of the nation's favourite pass times.
In fact I'm able to announce today an exciting new scheme supported by the RHS to cultivate a nation of successful, amateur gardeners.
It's called BBC Neighbourhood Gardener. Enthusiastic leisure gardeners will be able to take a course at their local horticultural college and then pass on their knowledge as volunteers in their neighbourhoods.
A similar idea has been hugely successful in the United States with over 60,000 'Master Gardeners' operating throughout the country.
We're delighted that the RHS will be advising us and helping us deliver this ambitious project in its pilot stage this summer and, if that's successful, hopefully beyond.
Like the RHS, the BBC is passionate about gardening and we look forward to a vintage Chelsea week to inspire people across the country to share that enthusiasm.
There are some things in life that are predictable and others are not. If someone had told me 20 years ago that I'd be Guest of Honour at the Chelsea Flower Show I doubt I'd have believed it.
My only regret about today is that my father is no longer alive to see this. As a keen gardener he would either have collapsed laughing or just shaken his head saying, "Chelsea isn't what it used to be".
My father spent many hours at the end of our garden. It didn't always seem productive but for him, as for so many gardeners, it was the best escape from his wife and three children.
Unlike my two brothers, I did not inherit either his interest or talent for gardening, so Chelsea is a revelation to me.
It has always seemed interesting to me that despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that most people in the UK live in towns or cities there is enormous and seemingly increasing enthusiasm for gardening.
Somehow the notion of a green and pleasant land is hardwired into the British psyche, even if many people's own patch of green is limited to a window box or roof terrace.
What I do understand about gardening is that firstly it increasingly dominates BBC TWO's schedules and secondly that the BBC gardening presenters seem to end up as the most unlikely sex symbols.
A bit like the visual arts, however, horticulture can arouse strong passions amongst enthusiasts whilst at the same time being a little intimidating and mysterious for the uninitiated like me.
The BBC tries to satisfy both the keen and knowledgeable gardener as well as bringing new audiences to gardening and hopefully, over time, encouraging everyone to take their interest in gardening further.
From Ground Force which is watched by many including those who don't even have a garden, to Gardeners' World, relaunched with Monty Don, a new sex symbol in the making I hear, for the more committed gardener, the BBC aims to cater for all levels of interest and expertise.
Which brings me to why I am here today apart from annoying my late father.
The Chelsea Flower Show is of course the Wimbledon of the horticultural calendar, although the British seem to do rather better at Chelsea than they do at tennis.
I'm sure I was invited because the BBC will be broadcasting coverage of Chelsea on BBC ONE, BBC TWO, Radio 4 and just about every local radio station.
There will also be extensive coverage online on our gardening website.
We never forget that although Chelsea happens in the south east, it is very much a regional, national and even worldwide event with hundreds of passionate gardeners and growers each making their personal pilgrimage here. This year even Songs of Praise will be coming from the bandstand in Ranleigh Gardens.
Mind you, changing television technology offers more possibilities than ever.
Our interactive coverage of Chelsea on digital television, first launched last year, has tours of every one of the show gardens and in depth interviews with each designer.
Now you can explore the gardens in much more detail from the comfort of your own armchair - and you don't even have to strain your neck to see over the heads of people in front of you especially if you're short like me.
What you may not know is that the BBC's co-operation with the RHS goes much further than bringing Chelsea to the nation.
For instance, without an enormous contribution of expertise from the RHS the 'How to be a gardener' online gardening courses would never have been the success they are.
These educational resources have encouraged thousands of people to learn more about the basics of gardening and garden design and by doing so introduce a whole new generation of people to what must be one of the nation's favourite pass times.
In fact I'm able to announce today an exciting new scheme supported by the RHS to cultivate a nation of successful, amateur gardeners.
It's called BBC Neighbourhood Gardener. Enthusiastic leisure gardeners will be able to take a course at their local horticultural college and then pass on their knowledge as volunteers in their neighbourhoods.
A similar idea has been hugely successful in the United States with over 60,000 'Master Gardeners' operating throughout the country.
We're delighted that the RHS will be advising us and helping us deliver this ambitious project in its pilot stage this summer and, if that's successful, hopefully beyond.
Like the RHS, the BBC is passionate about gardening and we look forward to a vintage Chelsea week to inspire people across the country to share that enthusiasm.
B&Q secures FSC tropical plywood
As DEFRA launches a consultation on licensed timber imports* B&Q announces that it will now only buy FSC certified tropical hardwood plywood. Certification for B&Q’s entire supply of tropical plywood is a global first as historically it has been difficult to secure FSC certification for this volume.
From this month all B&Q’s tropical hardwood plywood, which is sourced from community owned and private forests in Brazil, will be FSC certified with the FSC logo clearly displayed in store – the recognized standard for responsible forestry. FSC certified products are sourced from sustainable and well-managed forests to ensure that the use of the material does not damage forests, harm wildlife or jeopardise the future of people whose lives depend on the forests.
Julia Griffin, Timber Advisor for B&Q said: "All B&Q wood products are sourced sustainably and we are delighted to be the first retailer to gain FSC certification for all our tropical plywood. Now those looking for fully certified tropical plywood will have an easy way to get hold of what they need."
B&Q believes that this plywood will not only be of interest to consumers looking for responsibly sourced materials for their home renovation but also for those working on behalf of the Government who, since 1st April this year, have had to use timber from approved sources.
B&Q's tropical plywood is sourced from Acre, Brazil’s westernmost state. This area of the Amazon has been a major focus for environmental associations such as WWF Brazil and Greenpeace to help create responsible markets for sustainable activities and help local communities gain FSC certification. There are 370 families involved in the community forestry projects surrounding the production of B&Q’s tropical plywood supply and with the retailer requiring hundreds of thousands of sheets of tropical hardwood plywood a year it is hoped that the projects will expand to include a further 300 families.
The mill where the tropical plywood is created opened in 2006 and is self sufficient in energy as waste wood product is burnt to create energy.
* DEFRA launches its consultation on licensed timber imports on 14th September
There are three different types of plywood:
• tropical hardwood
• temperate hardwood
• softwood; pine and spruce
This announcement is specifically about tropical hardwood throughout plywood, which is sourced from forests in the Amazon region. Until now some FSC certified tropical hardwood plywood has been available from retailers but none have secured certification for their entire supply in such volumes.
From this month all B&Q’s tropical hardwood plywood, which is sourced from community owned and private forests in Brazil, will be FSC certified with the FSC logo clearly displayed in store – the recognized standard for responsible forestry. FSC certified products are sourced from sustainable and well-managed forests to ensure that the use of the material does not damage forests, harm wildlife or jeopardise the future of people whose lives depend on the forests.
Julia Griffin, Timber Advisor for B&Q said: "All B&Q wood products are sourced sustainably and we are delighted to be the first retailer to gain FSC certification for all our tropical plywood. Now those looking for fully certified tropical plywood will have an easy way to get hold of what they need."
B&Q believes that this plywood will not only be of interest to consumers looking for responsibly sourced materials for their home renovation but also for those working on behalf of the Government who, since 1st April this year, have had to use timber from approved sources.
B&Q's tropical plywood is sourced from Acre, Brazil’s westernmost state. This area of the Amazon has been a major focus for environmental associations such as WWF Brazil and Greenpeace to help create responsible markets for sustainable activities and help local communities gain FSC certification. There are 370 families involved in the community forestry projects surrounding the production of B&Q’s tropical plywood supply and with the retailer requiring hundreds of thousands of sheets of tropical hardwood plywood a year it is hoped that the projects will expand to include a further 300 families.
The mill where the tropical plywood is created opened in 2006 and is self sufficient in energy as waste wood product is burnt to create energy.
* DEFRA launches its consultation on licensed timber imports on 14th September
There are three different types of plywood:
• tropical hardwood
• temperate hardwood
• softwood; pine and spruce
This announcement is specifically about tropical hardwood throughout plywood, which is sourced from forests in the Amazon region. Until now some FSC certified tropical hardwood plywood has been available from retailers but none have secured certification for their entire supply in such volumes.
Sunday, 4 October 2009
The Simple Guide to Growing Your Own Vegetables
From Dobbies - It’s becoming ever more popular to grow your own fresh fruit and vegetables and nothing beats the taste of home grown vegetables.
Contain It You also don’t need a big garden. Hugely practical, vegetables can be grown in containers, window boxes, grow bags and even hanging baskets. You can then position your mini garden on a balcony, patio, porch or window sill. Salad DaysWhy not try growing delicious cut-and-come again salads that are ideal for providing a succession of leaves. Suitable types to try include beetroot leaves, chard, chicory, Chinese cabbage, endive, kale, lettuces, pak choi radish leaves and spinach. Choose a nice sunny spot with good drainage, avoiding windy areas or those with overhanging tree branches or hedges. If you’re planting in a container a depth and width of at least 45cm is ideal or if you’re using a grow bag, simply cut a panel along the top to create a shallow bed and plant in groves around a fingers width apart. Seeds should also be sown around 1cm apart then cover with compost and then water. Ongoing TLCWeed, water and feed regularly as edible crops are especially hungry and thirsty when they’re growing. Just give everything a good soak in the morning or evening when needed and feed every couple of weeks with nitrogen-based fertilisers to help them thrive. Although unlikely as your crop will grow so quickly, keep your eye out for any pests and diseases and treat immediately. You local garden centre will be able to help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. Reaping the RewardsGather leaves as soon as they are a good size with either scissors or by snapping off the outer leaves at roughly 2.5cm (1 inch) from the base. Leaves will re-grow again from the base and you can get several crops from one plant. It’s also worth bearing in mind, many garden centres now offer half finished vegetable plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and aubergines, so even if you’ve left it too late to start from scratch, you can still plant these out and start reaping the rewards almost straight away!
Contain It You also don’t need a big garden. Hugely practical, vegetables can be grown in containers, window boxes, grow bags and even hanging baskets. You can then position your mini garden on a balcony, patio, porch or window sill. Salad DaysWhy not try growing delicious cut-and-come again salads that are ideal for providing a succession of leaves. Suitable types to try include beetroot leaves, chard, chicory, Chinese cabbage, endive, kale, lettuces, pak choi radish leaves and spinach. Choose a nice sunny spot with good drainage, avoiding windy areas or those with overhanging tree branches or hedges. If you’re planting in a container a depth and width of at least 45cm is ideal or if you’re using a grow bag, simply cut a panel along the top to create a shallow bed and plant in groves around a fingers width apart. Seeds should also be sown around 1cm apart then cover with compost and then water. Ongoing TLCWeed, water and feed regularly as edible crops are especially hungry and thirsty when they’re growing. Just give everything a good soak in the morning or evening when needed and feed every couple of weeks with nitrogen-based fertilisers to help them thrive. Although unlikely as your crop will grow so quickly, keep your eye out for any pests and diseases and treat immediately. You local garden centre will be able to help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. Reaping the RewardsGather leaves as soon as they are a good size with either scissors or by snapping off the outer leaves at roughly 2.5cm (1 inch) from the base. Leaves will re-grow again from the base and you can get several crops from one plant. It’s also worth bearing in mind, many garden centres now offer half finished vegetable plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and aubergines, so even if you’ve left it too late to start from scratch, you can still plant these out and start reaping the rewards almost straight away!
Home Retail Group sign up to Industry Agreement
Milton Keynes - The UK's leading home and general merchandiser Home Retail Group is proud to have signed up to the WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme) Home Improvement Sector Agreement.
The launch of the voluntary sector agreement calls for industry to reduce packaging and waste to landfill. Yesterday Homebase and Argos committed to reduce packaging by 15% and waste to landfill by 50% by 2012 from the 2007 base levels.
Maria Thompson, Home Retail Group commercial director said: “Home Retail Group is delighted to be a signatory to the Home Improvement Sector Commitment. We believe that there are clear benefits to the environment, the business and our customers by making use of reusable and recyclable packaging and from reducing the amount of packaging associated with the products we sell. We have already implemented many changes to our packaging. These changes, along with the shared sectoral ambition to reduce the environmental impact of packaging generally, will help achieve the targets announced yesterday.”
Home Retail Group through its leading brands Argos and Homebase has pledged to reduce packaging on all its own label and direct import products. The overall performance will be reported to WRAP on an annual basis.
They also offer customers the facility to recycle more waste by providing a take back of packaging from large domestic appliances which are delivered. Other initiatives already offered in stores include Inkjet recycling, Brita water filter recycling, the take back of Argos catalogues for recycling and battery recycling schemes.
The launch of the voluntary sector agreement calls for industry to reduce packaging and waste to landfill. Yesterday Homebase and Argos committed to reduce packaging by 15% and waste to landfill by 50% by 2012 from the 2007 base levels.
Maria Thompson, Home Retail Group commercial director said: “Home Retail Group is delighted to be a signatory to the Home Improvement Sector Commitment. We believe that there are clear benefits to the environment, the business and our customers by making use of reusable and recyclable packaging and from reducing the amount of packaging associated with the products we sell. We have already implemented many changes to our packaging. These changes, along with the shared sectoral ambition to reduce the environmental impact of packaging generally, will help achieve the targets announced yesterday.”
Home Retail Group through its leading brands Argos and Homebase has pledged to reduce packaging on all its own label and direct import products. The overall performance will be reported to WRAP on an annual basis.
They also offer customers the facility to recycle more waste by providing a take back of packaging from large domestic appliances which are delivered. Other initiatives already offered in stores include Inkjet recycling, Brita water filter recycling, the take back of Argos catalogues for recycling and battery recycling schemes.
B&Q embarks on biggest ever price campaign "DIY is cool again".
From DIY-WEEK.NET - Customers that spend more than £50 this weekend (September 25-28) will receive the new card which will qualify them for an additional 10% of everything right through to the end of October both online and in store. Tradesmen will also have the opportunity to receive a 10% rebate across everything purchased this weekend. B&Q expects the move to save customers more than £20m this autumn and has already invested £25m in pricing campaigns since Easter this year. Kingfisher UK ceo Euan Sutherland said: "This is B&Q's biggest ever autumn price investment. At this time of year customers are getting their homes and gardens ready for winter and we want to make this as affordable as possible. We're seeing more and more people across the UK improving instead of moving - DIY is cool again."
Glee 2010
From DIY-WEEK.NET - Show organiser Emap announced a series of new initiatives for next year's Glee, including the decision to scrap the Sunday opening. Having historically taken place from Sunday to Tuesday, Glee 2010 will take place Monday September 20 to Wednesday September 22. Emap said the move had been made in "response to exhibitor and visitor demand". Glee show director Daniel Thurlow commented on the decision: "Our independent, annual exhibitor and visitor research continues to underline that September remains by far the best timing for the majority of exhibitors and buyers. This therefore remains the month in which we hold Glee, but this time - again in response to researched market demand and the recommendations from our Advisory Board - we have decided to hold it from Monday to Wednesday for the first time." He added: "The retail opportunity of this day has become an even greater focus for many retailers. We have therefore made the straightforward choice to move the show by one day, enabling buyers and retailers to not miss out on either the show itself, or a busy trading day." Glee also announced a rate freeze so that, for the second year running, there will be no increase in the price per square metre at the show. Emap announced that a new discounted price structure had also been applied "in order to reward loyalty and volume". Turnkey stand packages will also be introduced at the 2010 show, which have been created in conjunction with exhibition and events services company Melville Logistics. Open to all exhibitors, the packages are designed to provide a more cost-effective way to create a personalised stand.
Aquatics Centres of Excellence
Hozelock Cyprio are to invite the UK’s top aquatics retailers to form a nationwide network of Centres of Excellence which will benefit from a multi-tiered support package including multimedia store fixtures and merchandisers, local media advertising, online listings, beneficial terms, training courses and promotional materials.
The company’s aim is to give the aquatics consumer the best possible in-store experience in a supportive and knowledgeable environment so as to optimise sales and encourage repeat visits from novice and experienced pondkeepers alike.
Over 150 Centres of Excellence are expected to sign up for what Hozelock Cyprio describe as an opportunity to transform their stores with 21st century category management materials and modern multimedia communications tools.
They will have to commit to a 5 metre run of new “Perfect Ponds Made Simple” interactive modular display units and sufficient stock of Hozelock Cyprio’s top-selling pond pumps, filtration systems, pond treatments, fish food and accessories to keep the area fully merchandised throughout the year.
The striking new stands will feature “hotspot” interactive product displays, integral video screens, promotional focal points, leaflet dispensers, edge strips and mini lecterns which will enable consumers to browse informative graphics, flip charts and other data relevant to their area of interest.
There will also be three secondary placement video merchandising units for seasonal promotions.
A ‘Hozelock Cyprio Centre of Excellence’ entrance plaque will identify participating retailers and branded clothing will be available to make it easy for consumers to find expert sales assistants.
Participating retailers will profit from beneficial terms, free spares and a Hozelock Cyprio advertising campaign in consumer magazines, in local media and online. Above-the-line advertising will be supplemented by editorial publicity in national and specialist media. Centres of Excellence will be highlighted and recommended on the Hozelock website and will also benefit directly from leads generated via the company’s online interactive Pond Selector.
The centres will also receive a range of promotional material including pens, mugs, clocks and banners.
Announcing the initiative, Hozelock Director of Marketing, Simon McArdle said that all parties would benefit. “The consumer will have a full range stockist with spares, accessories and expert advice within easy reach,” he said, “while the retailer will profit from a raised profile, additional footfall, increased profit margins and top level support from an award-winning British manufacturer.”
Hozelock Cyprio’s newly-announced Aquaforce filter pump range and Automatic Fish Feeder will occupy two of the promotional focal points within the new displays.
The company’s aim is to give the aquatics consumer the best possible in-store experience in a supportive and knowledgeable environment so as to optimise sales and encourage repeat visits from novice and experienced pondkeepers alike.
Over 150 Centres of Excellence are expected to sign up for what Hozelock Cyprio describe as an opportunity to transform their stores with 21st century category management materials and modern multimedia communications tools.
They will have to commit to a 5 metre run of new “Perfect Ponds Made Simple” interactive modular display units and sufficient stock of Hozelock Cyprio’s top-selling pond pumps, filtration systems, pond treatments, fish food and accessories to keep the area fully merchandised throughout the year.
The striking new stands will feature “hotspot” interactive product displays, integral video screens, promotional focal points, leaflet dispensers, edge strips and mini lecterns which will enable consumers to browse informative graphics, flip charts and other data relevant to their area of interest.
There will also be three secondary placement video merchandising units for seasonal promotions.
A ‘Hozelock Cyprio Centre of Excellence’ entrance plaque will identify participating retailers and branded clothing will be available to make it easy for consumers to find expert sales assistants.
Participating retailers will profit from beneficial terms, free spares and a Hozelock Cyprio advertising campaign in consumer magazines, in local media and online. Above-the-line advertising will be supplemented by editorial publicity in national and specialist media. Centres of Excellence will be highlighted and recommended on the Hozelock website and will also benefit directly from leads generated via the company’s online interactive Pond Selector.
The centres will also receive a range of promotional material including pens, mugs, clocks and banners.
Announcing the initiative, Hozelock Director of Marketing, Simon McArdle said that all parties would benefit. “The consumer will have a full range stockist with spares, accessories and expert advice within easy reach,” he said, “while the retailer will profit from a raised profile, additional footfall, increased profit margins and top level support from an award-winning British manufacturer.”
Hozelock Cyprio’s newly-announced Aquaforce filter pump range and Automatic Fish Feeder will occupy two of the promotional focal points within the new displays.
AquaForce - Next Gen Filter Pumps
Aquaforce, a new generation of seven solids handling filter and waterfall pumps, has been unveiled by aquatics specialist Hozelock Cyprio following a rigorous two-year testing programme. They set unprecedented performance and efficiency benchmarks in delivering significant improvements in flow rates and head heights while consuming less power than conventional systems.
At the same time, Hozelock is upgrading its range of Ecoclear Easy Clean Pond Filter Systems which will now team Aquaforce pumps with Bioforce biological filters; and it is unveiling its first Automatic Fish Feeder.
In a striking new ‘power case’ with an exclusive Wildlife Protection System and models to suit all pond sizes up to 30,000 litres, the new Aquaforce solids handling filter pumps come with a waterfall option to make them multi-tasking pond workhorses.
Thanks to a unique conical impeller design and a self cooling system which ensures continuously perfect operating conditions, the Aquaforce pumps set new performance benchmarks with flow rate at 1 metre head up to 11% greater than the Titan models which they replace. When optionally creating a waterfall, head height is up to 22% greater.
These class leading, TÜV approved new pump motors are the most efficient on the market and a remarkable 71% more efficient than the Titans.
Thrust washers protect the rotor from damage while ceramic bearings maximise pump life: hence the Aquaforce comes with a three-year guarantee.
Pond water is drawn in through the cage grill which filters out coarse solids up to 6mm in size. Smaller particles down to 2mm in size can be eliminated by fitting the supplied clip-in fine mesh filter tray which affords the best possible protection for pond wildlife such as small fish, newts and frogs, preventing them from accessing the pump.
The large 229 sq cm surface area of the pump cage enhances the water flow while minimising the risk of clogging. It opens like a power tool case using quick-release finger clips to give instant access to all components for easy cleaning and maintenance. Arrows on the pump chamber enable the user to see at a glance how to reassemble the pump.
Versatile and controllable, the Aquaforce can be used flat or on its side and the case has an integral carrying handle which makes it easy to lift into or out of the pond. An amphibious capability gives the option to operate the pump on dry land while the cage remains submerged.
A second inlet allows the use of a skimmer or satellite filter. If a skimmer is used to pump surface débris to the filter, the flow control will adjust the balance of water taken from the main cage and the skimmer. Alternatively, a second filter can be attached and sited in a ‘dead’ area of the pond if there is one, or in an adjacent smaller pond.
Four of the models (Aquaforce 6000, 8000, 12000 and 15000) also have a variable flow adjuster.
The new Hozelock Cyprio Aquaforce filter pumps are scheduled to ship in February 2010 in unique shrink-wrapped sleeve packs which expose one end of the product for easy examination at the point of purchase while reducing packaging waste. The full colour sleeve is in English only.
For maximum impact at the point of sale, Hozelock have produced a looping video merchandising stand which holds two of each Aquaforce model.
MODEL FLOW RATE @ 1m WATERFALL PRICE inc VAT
Aquaforce 1000 600LPH at 1m 1.5m £69.99
Aquaforce 2500 1750LPH at 1m 2.1m £84.99
Aquaforce 4000 2800LPH at 1m 2.5m £99.99
Aquaforce 6000 4750LPH at 1m 3.5m £139.99
Aquaforce 8000 7200LPH at 1m 4.0m £149.99
Aquaforce 12000 10000LPH at 1m 5.0m £179.99
Aquaforce 15000 12500LPH at 1m 5.7m £199.99
Automatic Fish Feeder
Hozelock have also launched the Automatic Fish Feeder, a clever device which can be programmed to dispense measured amounts of food at the required intervals throughout the day.
Indispensable for holiday feeding, the Automatic Fish Feeder can be mounted on a pond wall or suspended above the pond using the supplied free-standing tubular steel gantry with ground spike.
Simple to operate via a single control which incorporates a battery-operated clock and a frequency dial which gives a choice of up to six feeds per day.
The food chamber holds up to 800ml of any kind of fish food.
The Hozelock Cyprio Automatic Fish Feeder costs £69.99 inc VAT
At the same time, Hozelock is upgrading its range of Ecoclear Easy Clean Pond Filter Systems which will now team Aquaforce pumps with Bioforce biological filters; and it is unveiling its first Automatic Fish Feeder.
In a striking new ‘power case’ with an exclusive Wildlife Protection System and models to suit all pond sizes up to 30,000 litres, the new Aquaforce solids handling filter pumps come with a waterfall option to make them multi-tasking pond workhorses.
Thanks to a unique conical impeller design and a self cooling system which ensures continuously perfect operating conditions, the Aquaforce pumps set new performance benchmarks with flow rate at 1 metre head up to 11% greater than the Titan models which they replace. When optionally creating a waterfall, head height is up to 22% greater.
These class leading, TÜV approved new pump motors are the most efficient on the market and a remarkable 71% more efficient than the Titans.
Thrust washers protect the rotor from damage while ceramic bearings maximise pump life: hence the Aquaforce comes with a three-year guarantee.
Pond water is drawn in through the cage grill which filters out coarse solids up to 6mm in size. Smaller particles down to 2mm in size can be eliminated by fitting the supplied clip-in fine mesh filter tray which affords the best possible protection for pond wildlife such as small fish, newts and frogs, preventing them from accessing the pump.
The large 229 sq cm surface area of the pump cage enhances the water flow while minimising the risk of clogging. It opens like a power tool case using quick-release finger clips to give instant access to all components for easy cleaning and maintenance. Arrows on the pump chamber enable the user to see at a glance how to reassemble the pump.
Versatile and controllable, the Aquaforce can be used flat or on its side and the case has an integral carrying handle which makes it easy to lift into or out of the pond. An amphibious capability gives the option to operate the pump on dry land while the cage remains submerged.
A second inlet allows the use of a skimmer or satellite filter. If a skimmer is used to pump surface débris to the filter, the flow control will adjust the balance of water taken from the main cage and the skimmer. Alternatively, a second filter can be attached and sited in a ‘dead’ area of the pond if there is one, or in an adjacent smaller pond.
Four of the models (Aquaforce 6000, 8000, 12000 and 15000) also have a variable flow adjuster.
The new Hozelock Cyprio Aquaforce filter pumps are scheduled to ship in February 2010 in unique shrink-wrapped sleeve packs which expose one end of the product for easy examination at the point of purchase while reducing packaging waste. The full colour sleeve is in English only.
For maximum impact at the point of sale, Hozelock have produced a looping video merchandising stand which holds two of each Aquaforce model.
MODEL FLOW RATE @ 1m WATERFALL PRICE inc VAT
Aquaforce 1000 600LPH at 1m 1.5m £69.99
Aquaforce 2500 1750LPH at 1m 2.1m £84.99
Aquaforce 4000 2800LPH at 1m 2.5m £99.99
Aquaforce 6000 4750LPH at 1m 3.5m £139.99
Aquaforce 8000 7200LPH at 1m 4.0m £149.99
Aquaforce 12000 10000LPH at 1m 5.0m £179.99
Aquaforce 15000 12500LPH at 1m 5.7m £199.99
Automatic Fish Feeder
Hozelock have also launched the Automatic Fish Feeder, a clever device which can be programmed to dispense measured amounts of food at the required intervals throughout the day.
Indispensable for holiday feeding, the Automatic Fish Feeder can be mounted on a pond wall or suspended above the pond using the supplied free-standing tubular steel gantry with ground spike.
Simple to operate via a single control which incorporates a battery-operated clock and a frequency dial which gives a choice of up to six feeds per day.
The food chamber holds up to 800ml of any kind of fish food.
The Hozelock Cyprio Automatic Fish Feeder costs £69.99 inc VAT
More info at www.hozelock.com
New Ultra Tough Metal Range
Fifty years after it introduced the world’s first plastic hose connector, watering market leader Hozelock has unveiled a premium range of metal tap and hose fittings which give a secure leak proof and kink-free connection on a wide variety of hose diameters and thickness. And in another departure, the company has announced new fully assembled and ready to use hose storage systems, including a heavy duty Metal Cart, to give an enhanced consumer experience and an improved in-store display.
The new product launches coincide with the publication of new GfK data which shows that the garden watering sector grew by a healthy 14.8% in the period from January to June 2009, with Hozelock increasing its market share to almost 70%.
Hozelock’s complete new range of premium fittings comprises tough, precision-machined ‘Pro Metal’ versions of its top-selling hose and tap connectors, including standard and Aqua Stop variants of its new-style anti-kink connector with flexible hose tail.
The Pro Metal connectors (RRP: £5.49 and £6.49) have a scratch-resistant zinc die cast sleeve which gives unprecedented strength and durability.
The internal mechanism, including the claw teeth, is moulded from acetyl plastic which gives the best possible grip on a hosepipe wall and hence the most secure connection between hose and watering tool, whatever the water pressure or ambient temperature.
Soft-touch, textured side pads make the new connectors easy to grip, even when wet, so attaching and detaching guns and other accessories is quick and easy.
The new companion range of heavy duty metal fittings is made from precision milled nickel plated brass. Comprising a ¾” tap connector with ½” adapter (£4.49), a 1” tap connector (£5.99), a double male connector (£4.49) and a double ended hose repair connector with anti-kink hose tail on both ends (£5.99), they have been designed to give years of trouble-free use in any environment.
Inset into each of the new Pro Metal fittings is a raised soft “bumper ring” which protects greenhouses and cars from accidental damage while also providing a comfortable contact point when handling the fittings in cold weather.
Offering a premium trade-up opportunity, as well as natural companion sales to Hozelock’s highly successful Ultra Metal hose guns, the new Pro Metal products will ship in March 2010 with an extended 3-year guarantee and coordinated silver hanging header cards for a striking in-store display.
Following Hozelock’s launch of new anti-kink plastic fittings this year, the Hose Fittings category has seen remarkable growth in both garden centres (up 20.2%) and DIY Superstores (up 17%), according to the latest GfK figures.
The company is also introducing a £39.99 Pro Metal Aquastorm version of its popular oscillating sprinkler with a nickel plated brass inlet.
New Hose Carts and Reel
A rustproof zinc coated steel drum is the main benefit of the new 60m Metal Cart with hose, making it well suited to heavy duty use in the toughest of environments.
It is fully assembled – including a unique new “metallic” 30m multipurpose foamed hose in a coordinated silver and yellow stripe which stands out at the point of sale.
The new Metal Cart will be available in March 2010 at an RRP of £59.99 inc VAT. A version without hose is also available at £39.99.
Hozelock will also break new ground at the end of 2009 with its most user-friendly range of hose storage systems in a high ticket category which has grown a hefty 11.2% this year, according to GfK.
The range comprises a 45m 2in1 Reel with 25m of multipurpose hose (£29.99) which can be used either free-standing or wall mounted; a 45m Cart with 20m of hose (£29.99); and two fully-assembled, ready-to-use 60m Carts with 30m or 50m of hose (£39.99 and £45.99).
A major benefit for consumers is that there will be no fiddly assembly work to do once they get the product home as the supplied hose is connected and wound at the factory. Nor will they need to buy extra accessories as each of the new products comes complete with hose and tap fittings as well as a spray nozzle.
All the new models except the 2in1 Reel feature a comfortable, telescopic towing handle with locking collars which can be adjusted without tools to the required height, ie up to 750mm with a warm, soft grip and handy accessory storage point on the 60m carts and 700mm on the 45m carts. The handles can also be used as a convenient aid to carrying the new products in store.
Hose rewinding is easy thanks to the supplied winding handles – and easiest of all on the 60m carts which have three-piece handles.
An asymmetrical drum can hinder rewinding; hence, the new Hozelock carts all have perfectly round, full-size drums which rotate freely under load. All the new models also benefit from a fixed base frame which cannot collapse unexpectedly.
More info at at www.hozelock.com
The new product launches coincide with the publication of new GfK data which shows that the garden watering sector grew by a healthy 14.8% in the period from January to June 2009, with Hozelock increasing its market share to almost 70%.
Hozelock’s complete new range of premium fittings comprises tough, precision-machined ‘Pro Metal’ versions of its top-selling hose and tap connectors, including standard and Aqua Stop variants of its new-style anti-kink connector with flexible hose tail.
The Pro Metal connectors (RRP: £5.49 and £6.49) have a scratch-resistant zinc die cast sleeve which gives unprecedented strength and durability.
The internal mechanism, including the claw teeth, is moulded from acetyl plastic which gives the best possible grip on a hosepipe wall and hence the most secure connection between hose and watering tool, whatever the water pressure or ambient temperature.
Soft-touch, textured side pads make the new connectors easy to grip, even when wet, so attaching and detaching guns and other accessories is quick and easy.
The new companion range of heavy duty metal fittings is made from precision milled nickel plated brass. Comprising a ¾” tap connector with ½” adapter (£4.49), a 1” tap connector (£5.99), a double male connector (£4.49) and a double ended hose repair connector with anti-kink hose tail on both ends (£5.99), they have been designed to give years of trouble-free use in any environment.
Inset into each of the new Pro Metal fittings is a raised soft “bumper ring” which protects greenhouses and cars from accidental damage while also providing a comfortable contact point when handling the fittings in cold weather.
Offering a premium trade-up opportunity, as well as natural companion sales to Hozelock’s highly successful Ultra Metal hose guns, the new Pro Metal products will ship in March 2010 with an extended 3-year guarantee and coordinated silver hanging header cards for a striking in-store display.
Following Hozelock’s launch of new anti-kink plastic fittings this year, the Hose Fittings category has seen remarkable growth in both garden centres (up 20.2%) and DIY Superstores (up 17%), according to the latest GfK figures.
The company is also introducing a £39.99 Pro Metal Aquastorm version of its popular oscillating sprinkler with a nickel plated brass inlet.
New Hose Carts and Reel
A rustproof zinc coated steel drum is the main benefit of the new 60m Metal Cart with hose, making it well suited to heavy duty use in the toughest of environments.
It is fully assembled – including a unique new “metallic” 30m multipurpose foamed hose in a coordinated silver and yellow stripe which stands out at the point of sale.
The new Metal Cart will be available in March 2010 at an RRP of £59.99 inc VAT. A version without hose is also available at £39.99.
Hozelock will also break new ground at the end of 2009 with its most user-friendly range of hose storage systems in a high ticket category which has grown a hefty 11.2% this year, according to GfK.
The range comprises a 45m 2in1 Reel with 25m of multipurpose hose (£29.99) which can be used either free-standing or wall mounted; a 45m Cart with 20m of hose (£29.99); and two fully-assembled, ready-to-use 60m Carts with 30m or 50m of hose (£39.99 and £45.99).
A major benefit for consumers is that there will be no fiddly assembly work to do once they get the product home as the supplied hose is connected and wound at the factory. Nor will they need to buy extra accessories as each of the new products comes complete with hose and tap fittings as well as a spray nozzle.
All the new models except the 2in1 Reel feature a comfortable, telescopic towing handle with locking collars which can be adjusted without tools to the required height, ie up to 750mm with a warm, soft grip and handy accessory storage point on the 60m carts and 700mm on the 45m carts. The handles can also be used as a convenient aid to carrying the new products in store.
Hose rewinding is easy thanks to the supplied winding handles – and easiest of all on the 60m carts which have three-piece handles.
An asymmetrical drum can hinder rewinding; hence, the new Hozelock carts all have perfectly round, full-size drums which rotate freely under load. All the new models also benefit from a fixed base frame which cannot collapse unexpectedly.
More info at at www.hozelock.com
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