As the RHS Chelsea Flower Show captures the nation’s attention, the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) releases its Market Update for May, reflecting on the performance of garden centres in April 2024.
April 2024 proved challenging for garden centres across the UK, as the weather, along with the year-on-year comparisons reflecting an earlier Easter, meant overall garden centre sales were down -10% versus April 2023. The increase in rainfall, 1.5 times that of last year, significantly impacted footfall and outdoor gardening activities. However, the year to end of April sales were +2% vs 2023, which eliminates the Easter effect, and it is hoped that as the weather improves and spring/summer bedding comes into its own, along with the inspiration from TV coverage of Chelsea, it will reignite a passion to get back out into the garden.
HTA Chief Executive Fran Barnes commented:
“Our market update underscores the importance of flexibility in retail strategies to adapt to changing weather patterns, consumer behaviours, and external issues. The HTA continues to support its members by providing insights and advocating for favourable conditions in the horticulture sector.”
