A Blooming Fabulous Experience: CJS Display’s Visit to the Glee Trade Show 2023
As the owner of CJS Display, a business specialising in bespoke timber display products for garden centres and nurseries, I was excited to visit the prestigious event. It did not disappoint! The future of garden retailing was in full bloom at the Glee trade show in 2023. My hope for the visit was to explore the latest trends and innovations in the world of gardening and horticulture – and that is exactly what I was able to do. With the hope of returning as an exhibitor in 2024, my visit to Glee left me inspired and optimistic about the industry’s growth.
Resilience in the Face of Challenges
The Glee trade show took place at the NEC, with thousands of visitors and potential buyers over three eventful days. The 2023 edition of Glee showcased the resilience of the garden retail industry, demonstrating its ability to thrive despite what we all know has been a challenging year for many in the economic climate. It was wonderful to see colleagues and friends in the industry come together, supported by various trade associations, including the Garden Industry Manufacturers Association (GIMA), the Horticultural Trade Association (HTA), and the Garden Centre Association (GCA).
New Initiatives and Partnerships
One of the exciting aspects of Glee 2023 was the introduction of new initiatives and partnerships. A notable partnership emerged with the British Home Enhancement Trades Association (BHETA) and the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA). This collaboration highlighted the importance of the DIY sector within the garden and home improvement industry, providing retail buyers with access to innovative products and suppliers. This development signified the industry’s commitment to meeting evolving consumer demands.
Home, Gift & Clothing Pavilion
On a personal note, it was nice to drop into the Home, Gift & Clothing Pavilion. This new addition added a unique dimension to Glee, showcasing artisan candlemakers, skincare specialists, greetings cards, plush toys, and fairtrade gifts. This diverse array of products demonstrated the ever-expanding horizons of the garden retail world. It was fantastic to see exhibitors like Woodmansterne celebrating their 70th birthday at the show, reaffirming the sense of community and camaraderie within the industry. Who knows… one day that could be CJS Display!
Inspirational Seminars
It was a total pleasure to visit Glee’s seminar theatre, The Stage, which serves as a platform for all the hot topics in the gardening and horticulture industry at the moment. I learned so much more about sustainability, outdoor living trends, and digital marketing. Experts like David Denny, Head of Research at the Horticultural Trade Association, shed light on global trends driven by climate change and their impact on the industry.
Talent Store Contest
The inaugural Talent Store contest showcased the creativity of visual merchandise professionals. The winning team placed sustainability at the forefront, offering inspiration to retailers on creating captivating displays with an eco-friendly touch. Their ideas ranged from edible displays to wildlife sanctuaries, aligning with the growing interest in sustainable gardening practices. As a business owner, it was a unique experience to share ideas with such creative colleagues.
My visit to Glee 2023 left me inspired and proud to be a business owner in this dynamic industry. The resilience of the garden retail sector, the spirit of innovation, and the emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity all bode well for its future. As CJS Display plans to return as an exhibitor in 2024, I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of this thriving community of garden enthusiasts, professionals, and businesses. Glee truly represents the heart of the garden retail world, where growth and opportunity blossom year after year.
