Garden centre members of the Garden Centre Association (GCA) have revealed their trading results for November in the organisation’s latest Barometer of Trade (BoT) report – with catering in poll position (2023).

The figures show a year-to-date variance of 2.38% and that 11 of the GCA’s 13 categories, recorded by member garden centres, saw an uplift during the month. 

Chief Executive of the GCA, Peter Burks says: “Sales were once again very encouraging for our GCA members in November with an average turnover increase of 5.36%, compared to November 2022, in a month where the weather was really most unpleasant. The trend for customers coming in for the restaurants and food halls continued in November, suggesting we are on course for a strong December.” 

The best category in November, excluding the miscellaneous section, was catering, up at +16.83%, followed by furniture & BBQs +12.02%, then food hall/farm shop, which was +11.58%, pet & aquatics +10.1%, clothing +8.39%, gifts +5.19% and Christmas up +2.62%.

Hard landscaping also performed well at +2.42% when compared to November 2022, so did garden sundries at +1.82% and outdoor plants +1.28%.

According to November’s BoT results, sales of houseplants were down slightly to -0.33% and seeds and bulbs at -2.39%.

The GCA BoT reports are compiled using actual sales figures and provide an up-to-date trading position statement. They are made available mid-month following the end of the prior month after all member garden centres have submitted their results.

The BoT allows members to compare their trading positions with other centres.

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit: www.gca.org.uk.