The number of visitors to Glee 2012 dropped by almost 20% to 9,112 this year, after attracting 11,149 last year and 13,050 in 2010.
But show bosses have defended the horticultural event, saying that in context of the industry's terrible summer, this year's Glee "performed ahead of current market trends." It comes as the Garden Industry Manufacturers' Association launches its annual survey of Glee, with industry attendees taking to the polls and internet forums to voice their verdict on the show.

This year's show saw 527 suppliers exhibiting, down on last year's 670, but the number of new suppliers went up by one to 201, and 34 companies returned.

Event director Nick Davison said: "It is vital when looking at the visitor numbers for the 2012 show to consider that this year Glee went through a period of significant change and development, particularly in relation to how Glee worked for independent pet retailers. One aspect of this was our strategic decision to end the Petindex licence agreement, and instead incorporate pet manufacturers within the main body of Glee. There is no doubt that this will have impacted upon this year's visitor numbers - however the overall picture is still a positive one."

He added that the show's garden-related visitor numbers were "only down 7% year-on-year, which is particularly positive considering current market conditions and what was deemed by many as one of the worst years for garden retailing for quite some time."

Meanwhile, members of the garden retail industry have voiced mixed reviews of the show. While GCA boss Peter Burks said the show was "an integral event for serious garden centres and suppliers", others say the show has become too small. Speaking to DIY Week recently, Fermoy's Garden Centre managing director Alan Murdoch said he'd found this year's show "disappointingly quiet," a view shared by many of the exhibitors who spoke to DIY Week from the show floor.

New features, including a food and catering zone, a shop window display, guided tours, trend tunnel and sessions from the knowledge hub were reportedly well attended. Mr Davison hinted at the development of next year's show, adding: "We recognise the need to continue to build a show that remains relevant, and provides the right platform for business to be done. Whilst we have our own ideas on how to do this, the ongoing advice, feedback and support of the industry is also vital: we cannot build a show that works without the input of those that use it."

· For a full review of Glee 2012, including views from the garden supply and retailer industry, a full gallery of show images and a look at the show's new features, see the October 19 edition of DIY Week.