Tong Garden Centre wins festive display accolade for third year running
Published: 30 November 2018 - Kiran Grewal
Festive displays at a Bradford garden centre have been named the best in the North East of England by a trade association for the third year running.
Tong Garden Centre was judged on the range, merchandising, marketing, presentation and displays of Christmas lines including trees, decorations, tableware, candles, giftware and food during the Garden Centre Association's (GCA) inspection for its annual Christmas Competition.
Not only did the team at Tong win the accolade for a third consecutive year, but they were awarded a score of 84%. The GCA class a score between 80-90% as excellent to outstanding.
Winners are selected for their ability to demonstrate a real ‘wow factor' by showcasing their product range with innovative and inspirational displays that create excitement and a festive ambience.
GCA Christmas win From left to right Zoe Tolson Zoe Whitehead Emily Edmond Jenny Shaw and Dennis Keen
Tong's commercial director, Sharon McNair said: "Congratulations to everyone - it's a great result and well deserved. Christmas at Tong really is a massive team effort and every department within the centre has contributed to this success.
"Winning this award for the third year is testament to the team's skill and ongoing commitment to giving our customers a memorable Christmas experience."
GCA judge Andy Campbell said: "I was lucky enough to visit Tong Garden Centre a couple of years ago to judge their Christmas Displays. When I visited this time around it was immediately apparent they had just got even stronger. They are very professional at what they do, the displays have huge impact and are clearly aimed at inspiring and helping customers in their own homes - well done team Tong!"
Established in 1966, the GCA champions professionalism in garden centre retailing. Every year, its 200 members throughout the UK and Northern Ireland must undergo a comprehensive annual inspection to ensure they continue to meet the stringent criteria set out by the association and therefore maintain membership.
Tong Garden Centre's Christmas offering includes a new Grotto and Polar Bear pop up cafe, weekly tasting events in the Food Hall and extended opening hours.