The Horticultural Trades Association ’s ( HTA ’s ) newly released November Market Update shows , despite Storm Babet and the wettest October since 1998 , that UK garden center retail saw positive trend in the last calendar month .
Fran Barnes , Chief Executive of the HTA , say : " Despite the challenges stick by the wettest October in decades and shifting consumer trends , our industriousness stomach potent and demonstrates its ongoing resilience . In the face of tempest Babet and economic uncertainties , October 2023 not only defy traditional sales agreement pattern but mark a respectable +2 % outgrowth .
" With adverse weather precondition and the inherent limitations of October as a typically small sales month , the horticultural sector showcased a commendable +2 % growth in overall garden centre sales compared to the same period last year . This growth is in particular noteworthy considering plant sale suffered from the inexorable rain but showed potent carrying out for year - to - escort comparisons ( Bedding was +12 % and Hardy works were +10 % ) .
" The strength of our public presentation in works concern and tool categories , coupled with a slight increment in Average Transaction Values to £ 23.67 , reflect sustained consumer interest in their gullible spaces . In the non - garden / horticulture category , catering soar upwards at +19 % , and food and farm shops also did well , up +9 % , demonstrating that even the poor weather could n’t damp the sprightliness of our garden centre of attention as customers seek shelter and leisure in garden centre of attention cafes and restaurants . "
Other update of note include the Consumer Confidence Index go through a notable decline of -9 guide to reach -30 , reflect consumers ' cautious prospect amidst concerns about vigour prices , fuel costs , and Christmas expenditures . The HTA recognizes these challenges and identifies that providing extra incentives for customer to chitchat during the forthcoming festive time of year in November and December could be fundamental to ensuring a vibrant end to the year .
This written report is released ahead of today ’s ( 22 November ) Autumn Budget announcement . The HTA submitted a number of tasks to the Chancellor for considerateness , urging activity on trade , peat - free transition , and SME funding , all of which are vital to ensure environmental horticulture can go on to deliver its potential for the UK economy and environment .
Environmental gardening – from gardens to full - plate landscape in rural and urban areas – is a essential part of the nation ’s economic and environmental landscape . Contributing £ 28.8bn to the UK economy , put up 674,000 jobs , and playing a central theatrical role in corroborate the UK ’s environmental and nett - zero finish .
HTA Members can read the full reporton the site .
For more information : Horticultural Trades Associationwww.the-hta.org.uk
Frontpage exposure : © Sergiy Palamarchuk | Dreamstime
