Judges impressed with the level of creativity, passion, and marketing skills across all the finalists.
Garsons in Esher, and Barton Grange in Preston were named as the winners of the £3m and above, and £3m and below categories respectively in the GCA's Christmas 2007 display competition.

The judges said they were very impressed with the quality of entries, which exceeded the standards set last year, and the creativity of the teams putting the displays together.

John Connel, a judge with 25-plus years experience in the lawn and garden market and now works for retail consultants The Garden Works Group Ltd, said : "I met some very talented people who have a flair and passion for visual merchandising and entertaining their customers."

The judges were asked to evaluate centres on various criteria such as clarity of offer, 'wow' factor, teamwork, innovation, and commercial focus.

Garsons and Barton Grange won top honours because of their stylish displays, stock levels, signage and themes for consumers to choose from.

Mr Connel said: "Garden Centres continue to lead the way in terms of Christmas retailing and are ideally suited to providing their consumers with a unique and personalized shopping experience."

The 2007 winners

Above £3m (seven entries)

1. Garsons – Esher

Very closely followed by:
2. All-in-One
3. Endsleigh
4. Notcutts, Norwich

Below £3m (eight entries)

1. Barton Grange – Preston

Very closely followed by:
2. Whiteleys
3. Sunshine
4. Castle Gardens

For a judge's eye view, read the January 4, 2008 issue of DIY Week.