Benross has formed a national garden retail team to focus specifically on the growing demand in the market.
The Liverpool-based product supplier will be growing its workforce by 20% and has said this will have a significant impact on its presence in the garden centre sector, helping it to increase its footprint in what it believes is a lucrative market.

The team comprises five field sales representatives and a new product development manager, David Kemp, who will spearhead the new department. With over 30 years' experience in the lawn and plant care industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.

Mr Kemp said: "Having worked on both the supply chain and retail sides of the industry, I have gained an in-depth understanding of the expectations and requirements of this competitive sector. I'm joining Benross at a really exciting time and I'm looking forward to leading a highly-skilled team, as we strive for continued success in this rapidly changing marketplace.

"Our objective is to make Benross the go-to suppliers for ahead-of-the-curve products at a competitive price, and I'm confident we've got the skills, knowledge and portfolio to achieve this."

The appointment of the new team follows the expansion of five key product lines, including outdoor lighting, camping, garden fun, Christmas and furniture, which have been developed to meet garden centre requirements.

For 2014, the company has also expanded its range of solar lighting, with over 40 new products, and its Christmas Workshop department, with the addition of 250 items including trees, lights and advent calendars, to meet the growing demand from garden centres.