13 Jun 2011

Avoca Garden Centre County Wicklow


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13 Jun 2011

Bloom 2011 in Photos Part 2

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13 Jun 2011

Bloom 2011 in Photos Part 1 www.HortiTrends.com


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15 Dec 2010

RUSHING THROUGH CLIMATE CHANGE BILL A NON-RUNNER – IFA

RUSHING THROUGH CLIMATE CHANGE BILL A NON-RUNNER – IFA

IFA President John Bryan has strongly criticised attempts by the Green Party to rush through 

ill-timed and badly thought out climate change legislation, which he understands is to be discussed at a cabinet meeting today.

He said, “Hastily-introduced climate change legislation will be very damaging to the role that the agri-food and other sectors can play in Ireland’s economic recovery. Before the Government moves ahead with any legislation on this matter, it must take full account of Ireland’s sustainable model of farming and change the flawed method of calculating greenhouse gas emissions, to accurately reflect carbon sinks from soils and forestry.”

Mr Bryan added, “The Government’s Food Harvest 2020 Report identifies major growth in exports and jobs from the dairy and livestock sectors. If this legislation is introduced with the unrealistic reduction targets currently proposed it will have a very negative impact on the potential of the sector.”

“It is ludicrous that Ireland could introduce emission reduction targets way in excess of those proposed by other countries, while at the same time countries such as Brazil destroy Amazonian rainforests and allow their greenhouse gas emissions spiral out of control.”

The IFA President said, “Any climate change legislation must take account of the carbon sinks associated with permanent pastures and forestry. This is essential because Ireland has the largest carbon absorbing permanent pastures in Europe and the greatest potential to expand the forestry sector.”

The current proposals contained in the Programme for Government go far beyond demands from the EU Commission and will have a very negative impact on our sector. The Green Party could do much more for climate change by resolving the chaos their inaction has created in the renewable energy sector. An immediate package of measures must be introduced which includes a realistic REFIT tariff to support carbon neutral energy production from the micro and bio and micro energy sectors.

Concluding, the IFA President said, “Ireland’s grass-based production system ensures that we produce beef and milk with lower carbon intensity than other exporting nations. Over the past 20 years emissions from milk and beef production have all declined in Ireland. We have a low carbon model of food production and Government policy must not undermine the sector’s ability to drive exports and jobs as part of our economic recovery.”

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8 Dec 2010

Replantable Christmas trees are festive success story.

Rebecca Smithers.
http://m.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/dec/08/replantable-christmas-trees-festive-success-story?cat=money&type=article

Potted and replantable Christmas trees have proved to be a 'surprise hit' say retailers

Potted and replantable Christmas trees have surprised retailers with their popularity with consumers this year.

Shoppers are showing their green credentials this year by creating a record demand for ecologically sound, replantable Christmas trees. The trees, which have roots and can be grown in the garden or in tubs ready for following Christmases, present a viable alternative to the annual hassle of getting rid of a Christmas tree.

Tesco says demand for the "green" trees – available in its stores in three sizes – have been the "surprise hit" this year. Its most popular so far is a miniature version that is about 50cm high, comes fitted with lights and costs £10. The other varieties are 2-3ft and 3ft plus high.

Tesco horticulture buyer Shama Mehan said: : "The miniature tree with lights has become a surprise hit with shoppers and we've already sold tens of thousands of them. We initially trialled them last year and they were snapped up very quickly but this year their popularity has exceeded all our expectations and we have had to order more – and we're still only in the first week of December."

The miniature trees are a variety called Picea, which originally come from Scandinavia but were grown in Holland. Its 3ft high trees are a variety called Nordman Fir while the 2-3ft ones are a variety called Blue Spruce. Both come in one-foot-high pots.

Tesco said the huge demand echoes a major trend in the last year for plants with sales now growing twice the rate as for flowers. Every Christmas over six million real Christmas trees are sold in the UK, but many of which are grown in European countries: resulting in environmental costs created by the transport required to import them to the UK.

B&Q is also reporting strong sales of its potted Christmas trees, which range in size from 40cm to 140cm. This year it has also introduced the smaller Grow Your Own tree for £6.98, saying it marked the start of a new trend for families to buy more than one type of tree.

Annette Hill, assistant buyer in horticulture at B&Q said: "There appears to be a growing trend for households displaying more than one tree, giving parents and kids a chance to stamp their mark. We're also seeing more people than ever buying Grow Your Own trees, especially families with young children, who want to start a tradition so the kids can see their tree grow over the years. When Christmas is over they can put the tree outside in the garden and bring them back inside the following year."

To ensure the survival of a pot-grown tree indoors, you need to give it plenty of water about twice a week and make sure it is not placed too near a fire or radiator. Decorate with only small lights to reduce the heat exposure.

You'll be saving yourself money over the years as they grow. But just be aware that they can grow as much as two feet in a year and once they get much bigger than 5ft they can become difficult to handle. The British Christmas Tree Growers' Association has some handy tips.

Also remember to reintroduce it to the cold outside gradually after Christmas so it does not get a nasty shock. If you are keeping it in a pot outside, rather than in the soil, repot it in a bigger tub each spring so its roots have space to grow.

Homebase also sells live trees, starting at 1.5ft in height and available in Norway Spruce, Fraser Fir, and Nordman Fir. Prices range from £7.99 for the 1.5ft Norway Spruce to £69.99 for a 5.5ft Norway Spruce.

Roger Hay, secretary of the British Christmas Tree Growers' Association, said: "This Christmas, with the decline in availability of trees from the continent, we're hoping more people than ever will support our British growers with a homegrown tree. British Christmas trees are one of the most environmentally friendly crops there are. Opting for a real, UK-grown tree will ensure you're making the most sustainable choice possible and trees bought at Homebase have a tiny carbon footprint, sourced as they are from British growers."

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8 Dec 2010

Banks Rule the Roost at Monrovia.


Last Thursday, Monrovia customers found an e-mail in their inboxes containing two letters. The first letter, signed by Monrovia leadership, read (in part): 

“Our banks have expressed their concern by giving us until January 31 to show significant improvement [$20 million] to our 2011 bookings or face a distressed sale of our inventories";

“Accordingly, we are offering you the opportunity to add to your spring bookings now and until January 31 [reductions of 35%-50% on products]”; and

“Candidly, we are being advised by our lenders and their advisors to sell to the big box channel if we are unable to significantly increase our booked orders. We will not sell our brand into the big box channel but the quality of our plants, even in a black pot speaks for itself. We are aware that this affects your competitive advantage.”

Monrovia has long been an independent-only grower of premium nursery products. Which is why a possible move into the big boxes prompted a group of 75 garden retailers to pen a letter of support (also included in the Monrovia e-mail): 

“We, as Independent Nurseries, cannot afford this to happen,” the letter of support reads. “We agree that we shall increase our spring bookings by a significant amount to help Monrovia Growers reach their goal.”

Monrovia’s response
I was traveling when all this went down, but Green Profit Editor-at-Large Ellen Wells was hard at work in her Boston office, so she called Monrovia for the story. Here’s her report:

I spoke with Monrovia CEO Miles Roseland Friday to learn more. Sales, Miles says, had been “fine” for a six- to eight-year period—then for the last two years they’ve “slowed”—recession-related, he says. 

As for two of their three banks (one wants out of the industry), “They are encouraging us to sell our plants into all channels and to find ways to increase our profitability as a company.” The one channel Monrovia currently isn’t in is the mass market. 

Asked if there would be a reluctance to go in that direction, Miles assured customers that Monrovia “wouldn’t go into that channel with our brand, and we haven’t been in business there so we don’t know exactly how to do it, but we’re going to look into it.”

“Humbling and quite remarkable” are how Miles describes the IGC letter of support. “When our garden centers became aware of our need to go into all channels, they said ‘Let us help you sell more plants. If you can pass savings on to us, we can try to pass savings on to our customers. Maybe we can order a little more.’” 

Premium nursery material in the mass-market channel—even in an anonymous black nursery pot—can and will be a threat to sales at IGCs. Does Monrovia feel they’d lose a lot of support from customers if they were to go into the big boxes, even if it wasn’t in a branded form? “We’re hopeful that our customers will understand the need for us to survive, and appreciate that we’re offering a differentiated product with a brand to them,” says Miles. 

What Monrovia wants IGCs to know is this:

* They’re in full production and have lots of plants to sell;
* They’re prepared to offer good pricing so they can pass savings along to consumers;
* They’re not asking you to take away from other growers; and
* They’ll continue to offer high-value, high-quality plants.

“Response has been very favorable,” says Miles. “If they [IGCs] are willing to increase their business, that should give us the basis to find bank support.”

The conference call
On Tuesday, Monrovia held four conference calls with customers and other interested parties (like me), sharing details of the issue and opening the phone lines to questions.

They explained that one of their three banks doesn’t want to be in business with an industry that has inventory on the books for more than 12 months. That bank has apparently been burned by other nurseries, and so wanted out of this field. “We’re faced with the need to replace one of our three banks, and that is what has precipitated this outreach,” said Miles. 

He was quick to add, “We’re not asking you to cancel from other growers. We recognize that other growers are in the same situation as we are, the same marketplace. We hope you’ll see the opportunity to add to your bookings with us, but we’re not asking you to cancel with someone else just to give us an advantage.”

Monrovia has more than 3,000 independent garden center customers. Quick math says each customer would have to increase its business by $6,700. Is that impossible? 

“We certainly don’t think so," said Bob Smiland, chief sales & marketing officer. "You can do the math yourself, but 3,000-plus locations, you don’t have to buy too much more per location to get to that number. So this is not something just for the larger multi-store operations or super-destination garden centers."

Will they enter the mass market?
That’s what one caller asked. Replied Miles, “The simple answer is, we really don’t know at this point. We haven’t done business in the box channel for 15 years, and really are not familiar with it, but it wouldn’t be prudent for us, facing our demise, so to speak, to not consider all the channels, and that’s what we are doing. So at this point we really can’t give you a definite answer one way or the other.”

But he added, “Our approach into the box channel is not with the brand. The brand is something that’s been built by the independent garden centers, and we want to keep that exclusive to your channel.”

That was the only probing question. Otherwise, the few comments were pledges of support. Said one caller, “Do what you can for Monrovia in this tough time. They’ve been here for us for many, many years.”

Added a representative from a multi-store independent, “I just can’t envision this industry without Monrovia. When things do turn around, we’re going to depend a lot on the guaranteed availability from Monrovia and being able to introduce their new varieties to our customers.” With that, he pledged to increase purchases this year by 25%.

Keep Yourself updated! Click Here to Subscribe to our News Letter and Alerts for the Horticulture & Fresh Produce Sectors In Ireland www.HortiTrends.com 

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7 Dec 2010

The French Connection by John Stanley

Garden retailing in France is controlled by a relatively small number of retailers who between them own the major share of the garden market. The key players are Botanic, Jardiland and Truffaut.

What makes these retailers special and what can retailers in other countries learn from them and the French retailer?

Many of you may think it is the way they put the product together, the French are famous for their flair as fashion leaders, but this was not the main lesson I took away for a week looking at the industry.

My journey started with the annual nursery awards dinner organized by Groupe J, the main magazine company for the gardening and pet sector. The dinner is a combination of wonderful entertainment, fine food and the awards ceremony. The awards are dominated by presentations to the Buyers.

Awards are presented to the best buyers in each category and the buyer is held in more esteem than the store owner, or that is how it seems to come across to a visitor looking at the industry.

The argument is that the key to success is based on a business having a good buyer, as stock turn and getting the right product mix is critically important.

Having seen the French industry and the industry in other countries I can see why the French put so much emphasis on the buyer. Heroic buyers can make a big difference. I talked to Brond Wagenaar,

a French garden centre consultant, concerning the awards and how they are judged. He informed me that they are judged based on the following criteria.

Technical Knowledge

Partnership approach with the supplier

Mid and long term vision of the business and the industry

Respect and commitment.

With the shift in consumer thinking, this type of award needs to be promoted in other countries as well.

HOW ARE THE FRENCH PERFORMING?

The average French garden centre generates between 1000 and 1500 Euro per square metre with an average sale per customer of around 30 Euro, except this does rise to 40 euro in the more wealthy Paris region.

Pets are part of the garden centre scene and a typical centre will donate between 25% and 30% of retail space to the pet category. The return on pets is higher than the return on gardening.

The segmentation of the market is interesting. At the higher end is Botanic, the middle market is supplied by Jardiland and Truffaut and the lower end of the market by Garden Price

Botanic

First stop was Botanic  

who promote themselves as the first alternative brand  
in garden centres. The claim comes from them leading the way in natural, eco-friendly garden products. Consumers seem to like the message and have voted the company the best garden retailers in 2007 and 2008

Their Suresnes store, overlooking the Seine just outside Paris, is the flagship store in the chain and offers some interesting new trends in garden retailing. As a consultant I often advise retailers that a lifestyle retail store has to be on one level as it is difficult to get garden customers to travel from one floor to another. This store breaks those rules and is located on three levels and it works.

The lower level is the garden department, the second level is seasonal, including a balcony of outdoor plants and the top level is the pet department. Keeping pets and balcony gardens are the key interests of the local consumers and this business does a great job in serving both.

The middle market is the Jardiland and Truffaut market. Jardiland is a 800 million euro business started 30 years ago and now has 217 stores  aiming  to be the IKEA of the garden industry in France, Spain and Italy. Truffaut, a 440 million euro business is part of the De Haize supermarket family and has 55 stores spread across France, but has a critical 50% market share of the Paris market.

The challenge for these businesses is that 25% of their business comes in 25 days.

In fact Jardiland quoted the “three” concept in their business.

The business relies on THREE months...15 March until 15 June

                                        THREE days...Friday, Saturday and Sunday

                                         THREE hours...2.00pm until 5.00pm

Scarfs and Tea Towels

A new business to me was Garden Price, operated by three ex Truffaut team members .Their aim is to own the bottom of the market. They are the place you come when you want to buy on price. They locate themselves in retail parks near a Truffaut as they realize that their customers will have to finish their shopping at a fully fledged garden centre. You go to Garden Place for a limited range based on price. The stores are a warehouse with pallets and racking as shop fixtures.

During my visit Christmas lead up was in full swing, I asked what happened in January as stock turn was clearly critical to the business.  I was told that while other garden centres moved into garden furniture which does not pick up in sales until March , they move in to tea towels and scarfs to keep female customers coming in and buying product.

The French market has moved forward in the last five years.  It is clear that some retailers have a clear vision of where they want to be in the future and are focused on getting there. They realize that the buyer is a critical player in that process and they are recognised as the retail heroes.

John Stanley is a retail business coach, speaker and author.  John films retail stores with new ideas and films great display ideas or retail trends as he travels around the world for his internet TV program.   Members of his Club can view the TV program for free and receive team training for free.  John has authored several successful marketing and retail books including the best seller “Just About Everything a Retail Manager Needs to Know”. 
John Stanley helps retailers:

·          Increase sales per square metre

·          Train staff to increase the average sale per customer

·          Better manage stock, merchandising and display to maximise potential

·          Marketing more effectively to convert more lookers into buyers

  For more information on John Stanley or how to become a Member of his Club, visit www.johnstanley.com.au or email info@johnstanley.com.au

Keep Yourself updated! Click Here to Subscribe to our News Letter and Alerts for the Horticulture & Fresh Produce Sectors In Ireland www.HortiTrends.com 

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Expertise, Practical Know-how, Passion for the Horticulture, Fresh Produce & Lifestyle Sectors.

Address: Suite 5 . 64 Dame Street . Dublin 2 . Ireland . Location: Map

Mobile: 353 (0)87 9212044  

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3 Dec 2010

HortiTrends Breaking News! Inaugural Meeting of Horticulture Action Group Postponed Due to Bad Weather.

Rescheduled for December 15th. Full Report Coming Soon! Sign up to News Alerts & Directory Below.

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29 Nov 2010

Silence is Golden. First Load Carriers in the World to Be PIEK Certified

Unique silent transportation units from Container Centralen

The noise levels of the rolling ½ and ¼ steel euro pallets CC Rolly and CC Dolly from Container Centralen (CC) have been tested by TNO (a Dutch independent scientific research organisation) to acquire the PIEK certification. Noise levels of both pallets stay within the maximum of 60 dB(A) to classify for this certification. This means that CC is the first company in the world to obtain a PIEK certificate in the category “goods carts” (load carriers). This milestone within goods deliveries was furthermore awarded a so-called ‘Noise Oscar’ November 9. 

At a ceremony held by the British Noise Abatement Society at the House of Commons November 9, Container Centralen and its range of low-noise returnable transport items were awarded the Highly Commended accolade.


Joseph Blair
HorticultureTrends

Keep Yourself updated! Click Here to Subscribe to our News Letter and Alerts for the Horticulture & Fresh Produce Sectors In Ireland www.HortiTrends.com 

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News . Horticulture B2B Directory . Advertising . Sales . Marketing . Business Development & Support. 

Expertise, Practical Know-how, Passion for the Horticulture, Fresh Produce & Lifestyle Sectors.

Address: Suite 5 . 64 Dame Street . Dublin 2 . Ireland . Location: Map

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Email: jblair@hortitrends.com     

28 Nov 2010

Dual Promotion of Keelings Flowers & Chocolates at Applegreen Making it Easier for the Guys to Choose

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25 Nov 2010

Flora Florists Dublin Ready for Christmas

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18 Nov 2010

Kildare Trade Show 2011? Kildare Grower's Press Release - “Future for Kildare”

Having carefully considered the findings presented from the review of the “Kildare Show”, Kildare Growers Group Ltd, has decided to embark on an alternative path to support and promote Amenity Horticulture.  The group has elected to focus their efforts on creating an event which will showcase the best of Irish horticulture, in association with Bord Bia (Irish Food Board).

 

Our vision for the event is to assist growers to nurture and develop new ideas, to bring quality trade buyers to the event and, supported by Bord Bia, to provide mentoring to exhibitors in presenting their offering to potential buyers. All of these activities are focused on establishing a desirable annual event.

 

Planning for the new trade event, in July 2011, more focused on promoting Irish Nurseries and associated product suppliers is currently underway, details  of which will be announced in due course.   

 

Yours Sincerely

 

Brendan Guilfoyle

Chairman Kildare Growers

Regards
Joseph Blair
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17 Nov 2010

Westland Horticulture to hold Masterclass for Retail Garden Staff in Dublin - February 2011

Westland Horticulture’s masterclasses are aimed at garden retail staff, and experienced speakers will provide information to boost the skills and confidence of staff.

The master classes will cover the follwing categories:

  • Developments and Trends in the market place.
  • Customer engagement.
  • How to maximise sales and product knowledge
  • The Future Foundation will provide information on trends and Westland Horticulture’s technical team will provide information on specific products to enable retail staff to pass this on to their customers. Westland Horticulture head of marketing Keith Nicholson said:  "The 2011 Westland Masterclasses are a must for all garden retail staff, as one of the leading companies within this area we will be using our knowledge along with those from outside professional organisations to reinvigorate gardening within centres across the UK."

    Westland Masterclass Date - Dublin: City West Hotel – 3rd February 2011.

    The classes are free of charge and restricted to 30 delegates per course.  A refundable booking fee of £35 is required. 
    To book your place email Nicola Bacon on nbacon@westlandhorticulture.com

    16 Nov 2010

    Irish Landscape Institute Events

    November 2010   

    Street Design in Ireland: A Renewed Approach
    Sarah Rock, Urban Designer & Principal of Placemakers  vwww.placemakers.ie 
    Jason Taylor, Urban Designer, South Dublin County Council

    Date:         Thursday 18th November
    Venue:      Conference Room, Pearse Street Library, Dublin 2
    Time:        Doors open 17h45pm, Lecture commences 18h15

    Sarah is actively involved in urban design research, education and training, and has a specialist interest in street design.  She runs the multi-disciplinary RIAI Urban Design CPD Series.  Jason is involved in a number of street design projects including the Adamstown Street Design Guide and is part of the working group tasked with producing new national guidelines for street design in Ireland.


    January 2011 
    Children, Play & the Elements - Harry Harbottle

    Date:          Thursday 27th January
    Venue:       Conference Room, Pearse Street Library, Dublin 2
    Time:          Doors open 17h45pm, Lecture commences 18h15

    Harry is co-author of the guide to the European standard for the safety of playground equipment and an expert in the specification and design of naturalistic playgrounds and play equipment.

    15 Nov 2010

    Executive Summary of Plan for the Development of Horticulture in Teagasc 2010-2013

    Executive Summary This “Plan for the Development of Horticulture in Teagasc 2010-2013” addresses both the ongoing need for change identified in Teagasc 2030 and the Teagasc Change Programme 2009-2013 as well as the need for maximising resources of horticulture in Teagasc against a background of a deteriorating budgetary position. The horticultural sector contributes over €360 million (CSO, 2008) to agricultural output at farm gate level and provides over 6,000 jobs in the production sector. In addition the amenity services sector has a value of over €2 billion and employs an estimated 12,700 people. There is considerable potential for development of horticulture at both production and value added levels. Fruit and vegetables play a very important role in addressing the nation’s health problems and horticultural pursuits contribute to a positive lifestyle. The need for ongoing industry modernisation remains a key priority to attain the efficiencies required in a competitive global horticultural industry. New EU regulations concerning pesticides were enacted in November 2009. These together with the volumes of existing regulations including the Nitrate directorate, hygiene regulations etc will have major implications for all growers as well as the input and output service industries. The goal of Teagasc will be to provide growers and the industry with the knowledge and skills to abide by these regulations while enabling growers and the industry to deliver increased profit from productivity. The primary recommendations are listed below: 1. Exploit the development potential of horticulture, prioritising mushrooms, fruit/vegetable, nursery stock/cut foliage and turfgrass sectors. a. Support innovation that adds value in the food sector taking advantage of the positive healthy profile associated with fruit/vegetables. b. Support innovation that creates diversity in the nursery stock/cut foliage sector. c. Use Producer Organisations to drive investment and consolidate market developments where possible. 2. Integrate horticultural research, advisory and education services in one programme under the leadership of a dedicated programme manager. This will better service the needs of the horticultural sector and enable rationalisation of Teagasc resources. Horticultural activities will be located at a) Ashtown/National Botanic Gardens b) Kildalton. Potato development work will be associated with the tillage crops and potato expertise in Oak Park. 3. The drivers of the horticultural programme will be a) Profit from productivity; b) Innovation for added value; c) Energy efficiency and d) stakeholders needs. 4. Teagasc will form a “Horticultural Commodity Team” comprising representatives from Teagasc, Bord Bia, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and stakeholders representing sectoral interests including growers and the industry. This team will provide leadership and coordination to the horticultural industry. Enterprise teams will be established to provide leadership to the individual sectors. A Joint Programme Development Team with representatives from Research, Advice and Education will draw up the annual Teagasc Horticulture Business Plan. 5. Key appointments required subject to resources are: a. entomologist to service the needs of all horticultural production; b. Specialist-Researcher on potatoes; c. Specialist-Researcher on mushrooms; d. Post doctorate or post graduate researcher on cut foliage; and, e. Knowledge transfer person dealing with horticultural web content, publications, short courses and public events.

    11 Nov 2010

    Breaking News! Development Plan for Horticulture In Ireland to be Released within days

    Director of Horticulture at Teagasc Jim O’Mahony is making ready the plan for the public domain and all interested industry sectors. Stay tuned to HortiTrends for this and other latest news updates!
    11 Nov 2010

    Breaking News! Development Plan for Horticulture In Ireland to be Released within days

    Director of Horticulture at Teagasc Jim O’Mahony is making ready for the public domain and all interested industry sectors. Stay tuned to HortiTrends for this and other latest news updates!

    Joseph Blair
    www.HortiTrends.com
    HorticultureTrends


    News . Advertising . Sales . Marketing . Business Development & Support. 
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    11 Nov 2010

    HortiTrends to Give Industry Talk to ITB Horticulture Entrepreneurship Programme 2010

    Joseph Blair of www.HortiTrends.com and Director of Horticulture Network Ireland will be speaking to students and entrepreneurs in the Institute of Technology's Horticulture Department tomorrow. He will be discussing a range of issues that are effecting existing businesses and new entrants into the horticulture sector in Ireland and Europe. He will be also showing students the benefits of joining the HortiTrends Business2Business Horticulture Directory and Sourcebook that will help them to Grow their Trade in Horticulture in Ireland now and into the future. 
    It is a free online directory that unlike paper catalogue directories will not be gathering dust on any shelf and are not out of date as soon as they are published. He will be also be revealing some trick of the trade and the benefits of a Social Media for Business campaign that will make the Directory outshine any new or existing entrants to the market. he will also talk about getting Free Money! from the likes of Bord Bia through the MAP programme among others. Check back over the weekend for an update on the talk and also how your company too can benefit by getting its business profile on Hortitrends now! Stay tuned for an important link up with and online consumer gardening website. Sign up to day at www.HortTrends.com

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    11 Nov 2010

    The Marketing Secret for 2011

    The Marketing Secret for 2011

    John Stanley

    Marketing has gone through a revolution over the last few years and month

    . It seems like every month a new idea hits the market place. Gone are the days when it was as simple as writing a newspaper advert and the job was done. The retailer of today has to consider the social media, conventional promotions, word of mouth marketing, loyalty schemes and a host of other ideas to develop their business.

    All these new ways of developing and growing your business have been proven to work by retailers and small business, but the real challenge is implementationin your own business.

    The down turn and uncertainty in the market place due to the financial meltdown in 2008 has resulted in most small businesses considering  downsizing and either shedding staff or not recruiting more staff.

    In 2010 many economies around the world are still “soft” with governments bringing in stricter governing regulations and as a result retailers are still nervous about growth in the economy. This really came home to me when I had a conversation with my local travel agent. We were having a conversation about marketing and she mentioned that the challenge was not developing new ideas, but having the time to implement those ideas. She was confident that if she had the time she could develop her business and spread the message about how good her service was helping her customers.

    She is aware of the marketing secret for 2011...it is TIME .Those businesses that can find time to develop their marketing strategy are those that will prosper in 2011.

    I was recently working with a client and his reaction was very similar. His comment was “I am too busy to do marketing, I need all my time to just keep the business afloat, when the business is going well I will give myself more time to do the marketing”.

    The extra pressure that retailers and small business are feeling at present is resulting in less people doing more work and as a result they are not having time to develop their business. This strategy will work in the short term, but in the long term it will result in a reduction in customers as other businesses gear up to develop their marketing strategies and attract customers away from your business.

    TIME SAVERS

    The key to developing your business in the next few months is going back to the basics of management and looking at how you can use time more effectively to allow you and your team to develop marketing strategies for the business in 2011.

    My top 7 Tips are as follows

    1 Write down your goals as far as marketing is concerned. What do you want to achieve and by when. I think the key is to write them down rather than just think about them and to put a date to the time you will have achieved these goals.

    2 When travelling give yourself a target to achieve. I am a typical “Road Warrior” and use the time at airports and on flights to achieve work goals, you may not be an air traveller, but travel time can still be a valuable time to catch up and research what marketing you need to develop.

    Do not procrastinate. Set a deadline, write it down and do it. Tell work colleagues and family members what you are doing so they can help you develop your goals.

    4 Balance your time between traditional marketing and social media marketing. It is easy to get engrossed in one at the expense of the other. You will need both techniques in your tool kit for 2011.

    5 Is there something that you can delegate to allow you to invest more time in the things that will make a difference in your business? For some of us it may be worth delegating the marketing, for others it may mean delegating other areas of work.

    6 Measure the success of marketing. Measure how you are achieving more customers and the increase in the average sale per customer. This will give you the motivation and confidence to develop your marketing skills

    7 Reward yourself when you have achieved your goals in marketing.

    I am confident that 2011 will result in more unique marketing ideas being presented to all of us and it will be easy to feel swamped by all these ideas. My advice is to keep it as simple as you can, set some goals and make sure you achieve them.

    John Stanley (CSP) is one of the top 10% of speakers in the world today, an acclaimed retail consultant and WA Entrepreneur of the Year 2009.  The author of several marketing, customer service and retail books including the best seller “Just About Everything a Retail Manager Needs to Know”, his company is WA Small Business Champion 2009 – Educational Services and WA Small Business of the Year 2010 for Export Services.  John was voted one of the “Power 100” in 2010 by the UK Horticultural Press.  Visit his websitewww.johnstanley.com.au or email linda@johnstanley.com.au to see how he can help you grow your business. 

     

      

     

    6 Nov 2010

    Garden Centres and a Florist Winners in Retail Excellence Ireland Awards

    Irelands top 50 stores in 2010 include Arboretum Lifestyle & Garden Centre at number 11, Orchard Home & Garden at 13 and Lamber De Bie Flowers at 25. Both Arboretum and The Orchard were winners in the Best Superstore Category with De Bie Flowers a winner in the Best Small Store Sector. www.retailexcellence.ie
    3 Nov 2010

    GLDA Seminar Ticket Sales to Date Suggest a Pre Christmas Sell Out.

    Garden and Landscape Design Seminar, Saturday 29th January 2011

     

    Inspired: What drives successful design?

     

    Design is borne of many things; Ego, empathy , passion, skill, history, belief, knowledge, vision, bravery, economy and emotion all play their part in stimulating designers to solve problems, satisfy desires and overcome challenges. What drives and constitutes successful design is a somewhat more complex issue. While consensus may be reached on intent, function and aesthetics, the shifting sands of time alter perception, attitude and environment making it an essentially ephemeral agreement; And one which design professionals have debated for eons.

     

    To frame a contemporary vision of what drives successful design, the Garden and Landscape Design Association (GLDA) have enlisted the genius of some of Europe’s most respect design professionals for a day of insight, opinion and debate.  Now in its 15th successful year, the GLDA design seminar, which is aptly entitled, Inspired: What drives successful design? Will take place on Saturday 29th of January at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. The speaker line-up for the eagerly awaited 2011 seminar features multi award-winning design professionals of national and international acclaim, including Tom Stuart-Smith, Róisín Heneghan of Heneghan Peng Architects, Hugh Ryan MGLDA and James Doyle of James Doyle Associates.

     

    As the design calendar event of the year places are already being snapped up. To secure your place at this exciting event you are encouraged to book early. For tickets and further information contact the GLDA office on: 01 2940092, info@glda.ie or via www.glda.ie.

     

    This event is proudly supported by Bord Bia, Ireland’s Food Board.

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    3 Nov 2010

    "Operation Chip It" News

    "Operation Chip It" News November 3, 2010

    Facts about “Operation Chip It”

    Different messages about ‘Operation Chip It’ are circulating in the media. Some are correct, but there are also many misunderstandings. The short and simple facts are as follows:

     

    • 1. From the 10th of January 2011 FloraHolland, GASA, Landgard and CC will scan all incoming containers.
       
    • 2. From the 10th of January 2011 FloraHolland, GASA, Landgard and CC will only hand out genuine CC Containers. 
       
    • 3. In December / January you will receive new ID tags (‘padlocks’) according to the number of CC Containers you have under contract with CC. CC will credit you GBP 0.17 per CC Container for the tagging. 
       
    • 4. If you have more CC Containers than stated in your contract(s) with CC, you can currently add these to your CC contract holding at a special license fee of only GBP 5 per CC Container. After the 10th of January 2011, the license fee will be GBP 15. 
       
    • 5. All containers without the new CC ID tag and the CC metal plate will be rejected. 
       
    • 6. New ID tags that cannot be scanned or give an error message will, in the first instance, also be accepted and included in your balance. They will, however, be recorded separately. 
       
    • 7. A special Control Group, manned with both internal and external experts, will investigate and report any suspicious flows or patterns. This is necessary in order to find and eliminate misuse of our common system. 
       
    • 8. If the situation demands it, customers with suspicious flows or patterns will be asked to improve control before hand-in so that any misuse can be avoided.

    Scan your CC Containers – YOUR Guarantee!

    Containers without a genuine CC RFID tag are not accepted in the CC Pool System. Therefore, we recommend that you always scan the containers you receive.

    More information
    www.operation-chip-it.com

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    2 Nov 2010

    www.HortiTrends.com Launching B2B Horticulture Trade Directory & Website that will Work Hard for Your Business

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce Ireland News website www.HortiTrends.com is to provide Horticulture Network Ireland with it's new feed service on it's network site at www.horticulture.ie The news feed covers all the sectors involved in the provision of products and services in both the B2B and the B2C arena including:

    Nurseries & Ornamental Growers.
    Fresh Produce, Fruit & Vegetable Growers.
    Garden Centre, Florists & Retail.
    Landscaping & Landscape Architecture.
    Green Keeping & Sports Turf.
    Arboriculture & Forestry.
    Environment & Green Sectors.
    Local Authority, Parks & Government.
    Jobs, Events & Tender Alerts.

    John Whelan CEO of the Irish Exporters Association said " A news and directory service of this kind has been sorely missed in the sector and will help companies to stay abreast of changes and trends in the areas of horticulture & fresh produce while providing them with a vehicle to promote and market their services."
    He also welcomed three new members. Aqua Flor Direct Ltd www.aquaflordirect.com, Neutrog Fertilisers www.neutrog.ie and HortiTrends www.HortiTrends.com

    Joseph Blair of HortiiTrends also announced the launch of a new Directory Service for businesses in the Horticulture and Fresh Produce sectors. "It will go hand in hand with the HortiTrends website and will be heavily marketed at home and abroad as a resource tool for companies who want to source products and services. It will not be your typical static site and will utilise all the benefits of Social Media for Business."

    There are also plans to launch both a Trade News printed magazine along with a new consumer gardening website and consumer magazine. Horticulture companies in Ireland will now have a one stop shop to interact with both the B2B and B2C markets. 
    To find out more contact Joseph on 087 9212044 or visit www.HortiTrends.com

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    29 Oct 2010

    John and Linda Stanley Have an Award Winning Year

    John and Linda Stanley, the owners of John Stanley Associates are having a year of awards.  

    Belmont Small Business awards announced last week that their company John Stanley Associates had won the Belmont Small Business Export Award.

    This is the third recognition of their endeavours in the last twelve months. Twelve months ago the couples business was awarded the Small Business Champions Award for Training and Education in Western Australia and John was awarded Small Business Champion Entrepreneur of the Year for Western Australia.

    In July the UK horticultural press placed John in the top 100 most influential people in the UK horticultural retail industry; this was for the second year running and he was  the only non UK resident in the list.

    This latest award is in recognition of the amount of work the couple do outside of Australia helping small businesses to grow and prosper. On the awards presentation night, John and Linda could not be present to accept their award as they are working with retailers in Hungary, Czech and Poland. Their Eastern European work is a combination of conference presentations, consultancy and retail workshops. The couple work in 28 countries on all Continents where businesses exist, they have worked in Czech before, but this is the first time they have worked in Poland and Hungary. Their first trip to Poland has already resulted in four more trips being organised to work with the industry.

    You can take a look at their calendar of work on their website www.johnstanley.com.au

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    29 Oct 2010

    ScottsMiracle-Gro Announces Jim Hagedorn Will Remain as CEO

    ScottsMiracle-Gro Announces Jim Hagedorn Will Remain as CEO

    Barry Sanders promoted to President; Mark Baker departs as President and Chief Operating Officer

    The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG), the world's leading marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products, today announced that Jim Hagedorn has decided to continue to serve as both chairman and chief executive officer. In 2008, Mr. Hagedorn announced his intention to retire as CEO during this fiscal year.

    "The success we've seen over the past two years has been exciting, but it really just reinforces how much more opportunity remains for our Company and the lawn and garden category," Hagedorn said. "While I thought I wanted to step aside after I turned 55, I've decided I want to stay engaged in the business and, with the approval of our Board of Directors, intend to do so."

    ScottsMiracle-Gro also said that Mark Baker, who was hired as president and chief operating officer two years ago, has departed the Company and the Board of Directors.

    "While I will miss the good friends I have made over the past two years, my decision to leave is the right thing for the Company," Baker said. "Jim is a strong and charismatic leader and I continue to share his vision for ScottsMiracle-Gro. I wish him and all 8,000 associates good luck and I am confident in their continued success."

    Additionally, Barry Sanders has been named president of the Company, effective immediately.

    Sanders joined ScottsMiracle-Gro in 2001, overseeing the implementation of a new enterprise resource planning system as well as the consolidation of the North American Consumer business. He later led the sales force in the U.S. and was then promoted to lead the Company's Global Supply Chain. In 2008, Sanders was selected to lead the U.S. Consumer business and, earlier this year, was named executive vice president of the entire Global Consumer segment.

    "I am confident that the leadership team here is as strong as we've ever had," Hagedorn said. "Barry has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to drive profitable growth and has repeatedly set a clear direction for his team, and has been tenacious in driving results.

    "I also want to acknowledge the important contributions that Mark Baker made to this Company. As President and COO he helped us implement changes that will benefit us for years to come. And the insights he provided during his seven-year tenure on our Board made our discussions more productive and truly helped to guide the vision and strategy of our Company. I look forward to continuing my 20-year friendship with Mark. He leaves us on good terms and I want to thank him for all he has done," Hagedorn said.  

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    27 Oct 2010

    Obituary: Jim Kelleher a Committed Horticulturist and Family Man Remembered by Friends and Colleauges

    It is with great sadness that we report the recent death of a popular and hardworking horticultural colleague. I asked Jim's colleagues in Teagasc for a few words.

    “The death has recently taken place of Jim Kelleher, Teagasc Nursery Stock Specialist advisor. Jim was based at Kildalton for a long number of years both as an advisor and lecturer in horticulture. He started his career in County Wicklow where he served in the early 80’s. During his time at Kildalton Jim was seconded to Avonmore/Glanbia where he headed up the emerging forestry division before returning to Kildalton. Jim made a very significant contribution to horticultural development.  In January 2010, despite the onset of his illness, Jim was a key driver of plans for the Nursery sector as outlined in the “Plan for the Development of Horticulture in Teagasc 2010-2013”. Socially Jim was great company – a renowned raconteur and able musician! Jim will be sadly missed by his clients, colleagues and friends in Teagasc and particularly at Kildalton.

    All at Teagasc send our sympathies to Jim’s wife Kathleen and family.

    "Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

    Jim Kelleher

    Jim at the National Plant Fair, Punchestown 2009.

    Photo: Koraley Northen

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    27 Oct 2010

    40.4bn in Irish exports in Q3 2010

    40.4bn in Irish exports in Q3

    John Whelan

    John Whelan


    The leap in exports was driven by an aggressive 12.8pc growth in merchandise exports, according to the Exporters Association (IEA) third quarter review.Good growth in merchandise and services exports brought total Irish exports for the third quarter to €40.4bn, marking a 9.3pc increase on last year.

    The Association’s chief executive John Whelan said the export effort continues to show Ireland the “way out of the recession”.

    The review said that merchandise exporters gained from a broadening out of the growth across most of the main international trading markets. Exchange rate competitiveness and continued buoyancy in global trade also assisted the acceleration in export growth.

    Whelan said the euro exchange rate with the dollar in the three months toSeptember was, on average, 10pc lower than it was in 2009. “This helped Irish manufactured goods exports to the US rise by 32pc in value,” continued Whelan. “This reversed the losses in exports to that market over the last two years. This indicates clearly that Irish exports are now competitive into the US, provided the US Treasury does not re-enter the currency market to weaken the dollar.”

    Whelan added that the exchange rate with sterling also improved during the quarters, helping exports to the UK rise by 4pc. This was particularly important for the indigenous sector which trades heavily to the UK market, said Whelan.

    The agri-food sector increased its export sales by 14pc. Services exports grew 4.9pc, a more modest growth than its aggressive pattern in the first half of the year. The Association expects export sales will continued to be strong for the rest of the year, and therefore has revised its forecast for the year to €158.9bn in total exports.

    It added that Irish exports could grow faster next year if the Budget 2011 is supportive of the export sector and does not increase the cost of exporting from Ireland. The IEA Pre-Budget Submission outlines the key routes to export expansion that should be supported in the Budget. 

    Whelan stated that despite the strong overall performance of Ireland exports, it is hard to overstate the difficulties faced by exporters in 2010. He said volatile exchange rates, reduced trade finance for expansion, withdrawal of bank bond guarantees, withdrawal of invoice discounting cover and credit insurance difficulties all are problems which exporters still face.

    However, he concluded, “There is clear evidence that exporters can drive their way out of this recession and bring economic growth with it, but it is essential that the upcoming Budget supports export growth and does not increase the cost of doing business in Ireland.”

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    27 Oct 2010

    UK Landscape Award Final Shortlist Announced

    UK Landscape Award final shortlist announced

    The UKLA shortlist has been announced and the details on the six finalists are revealed here...

    UKLA shortlist announced

    A shortlist of six UK landscapes were announced on 12 October as contenders for the first-ever UK Landscape of the Year soon to be revealed at the Landscape Convention Conference in November…

    The six finalists from the transformed heritage coastline in Durham to a bustling city-based network of green spaces in Sheffield, represent the rich variety of work going on the profession today. The shortlist is: 

    • A twenty-five-year campaign to improve the Mersey Basin
    • Restoration of the Durham Heritage Coast – previously an industrial wasteland
    • Creation of spectacular spaces and streets in the heart of Sheffield
    • Community-led rebuilding of Baxter Park, Dundee in Scotland
    • Conservation of the hill forts and heather moorland of Denbighshire in Wales
    • Regeneration of Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland

    The winning landscape will go on to represent the UK in the European Landscape Award, which takes place in Strasbourg in March 2011.

    Commenting on the announcement, Natural Environment Minister, Richard Benyon, said: “Whether you’re in a town or in the countryside there are areas around us that we should rightly be proud of. A good landscape makes us feel part of a community and gives a sense of pride in where we live.”

    Helen Phillips, Natural England Chief Executive, was equally emphatic: “All landscapes are important. They form the link between human society and the natural world, and provide vital natural support services – such as food, clean water, climate change regulation, flood prevention and, of course recreation. All six shortlisted landscapes showcase what can be achieved when communities and partners come together to support the landscapes around them.”

    Professor Keith Nicholson, a board member of Scottish Natural Heritage says, “We are really pleased to see the Dundee project win the Scottish heat of the award. This project has demonstrated real commitment to sustainable landscape in the local community. Looking after our landscapes is a responsibility shared by everyone. The Dundee project has embraced that responsibility wholeheartedly and we wish it every success in the finals.”

    Project profiles: your guide to the UKLA shortlist

    Full details of all schemes are available at:uklandscapeaward.org/results

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    27 Oct 2010

    Capital Investment Programme 'Crucial' For Economic Growth, Says CIF


    The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has called on the Irish Government to make job retention and development a primary goal of its four-year budgetary policy. 

    Speaking at the publication of the federation's pre-Budget submission, the Director-General Tom Parlon said: "The Government’s fiscal consolidation targets for the next 4 years won’t be achieved without economic and employment growth. If this is to be achieved, the Government has to protect productive spending in the Budget.

    "The Capital Investment Programme is particularly crucial in this regard. Cutting capital investment again will only serve to further depress economic activity and as has been illustrated over the past two years, put more pressure on the Exchequer as a result of further unemployment. Cutting productive investment is a false economy."

    Mr Parlon continued: "There are a range of measures that the Minister can introduce, at no cost to the Exchequer, to help support the economy. A good example is stamp duty. Persisting with a high transaction tax when there are no transactions makes no sense, either from the economy’s or the Exchequer’s perspective."

    "Introducing a 0 per cent stamp duty rate may encourage more interest in commercial and residential property transactions and therefore generate additional incomes for the State," he added.


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    '

    27 Oct 2010

    Glee visitor numbers fall 11% as visitors stay away by Phillip Voice

    Exhibitors at this years Glee must be wondering how low visitor numbers can fall as unaudited figures show that just under eleven percent less people attended the event between 20-22 September 2010, NEC Birmingham.

    The show has now seen a fall of 49.5% since its peak in 2003 (source ABC).

    Confusingly, and quite worryingly - official Glee media partner - Hort Week, headlined their story 'Glee hails visitor uplift to 13,000'. I might be missing something (perhaps it's an industry code?) but Glee posted 14,617 in 2009 and only 13,050 in 2010 - a fall of just under 11%?

    Hort Week will have to explain how it's come to its conclusion because I don't understand it.

    Here's the audited* figures from 2003 to date.

    2010* 13,050 (unaudited)
    2009 14,617 
    2008 18,119 
    2007 22,202 
    2006 24,530 
    2005 25,157 
    2004 24,761 
    2003 25,886

    Glee

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    receive.

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    '

    27 Oct 2010

    Landscaping & Landscape Architecture News: UK Hard Landscaping Show 2011 Cancelled

    Hard Landscaping Show 2011 cancelled

    HLSThe Hard Landscaping Show 2011, due to have been opened by journalist Matthew Wilson, has been cancelled after organisers failed to sell enough stand space to make the February 2011 event viable.

    Event director, Stephen Callaghan, told DIY Week: "Trading conditions in the landscaping industry remain very tough," and went on, "Many of our major exhibitors are struggling to commit and this has been making it difficult for us to achieve our goal of significantly growing the show for 2011."

    Callaghan is proposing that the Hard Landscaping Show will return in February 2012 and has intimated that the event may go to bi-annually.

    by Phillip Voice.

    More coverage:

    Hort Week - Hard Landscaping show postponed until 2012 due to 'tough trading conditions'

    The Landscaper Magazine - SHOW MOVES TO 2012

    The Hard Landscaping Show website.

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    '

    27 Oct 2010

    New UK Landscaping Trade Show for 2011

    CL LogoRGBDates_picnik


    ....a step closer to launch

    As a landscaping and gardening industry analyst, I've been appalled in recent years at the way the landscaping and horticulture industry has largely ignored the end user when organising trade events.

    The emphasis has always seemed to have been on the product or services supplier's relationship with the ultimate buyer, and the practitioner - the guys and girls who use machinery and products, day in and day out - too often referred to as 'tyre kickers', are all but forgotten in the development and sales process.

    It's time that practitioners' experience knowledge is fed back into development and fine tuning of equipment and machinery because they are the ones who get to know, warts and all, how a piece of equipment feels and responds handles or how a product works, during the course of their work.

    The day has arrived whereby the practitioner, rightly, is becoming recognised as the driver of the landscape and garden industry - their opinion, views and advice should be ignored at peril.

    Managers have had their time and not made a difference: how can someone who sits at a desk all day possibly know what machine to buy when they are not out in the fields and dealing with conditions underfoot? It's all well and good acting as a middleman and feeding information back to developers but as always, something will always get lost in translation.

    Machinery, equipment, product developers and manufacturers should have the opportunity to talk directly with the practitioner: The Landscape Juice Network was the first ever landscape and horticulture professional trade network to bring together everyone from the landscaping and garden world and now we are close to launch of our brand new industry Trade Show called Creating Landscapes.

    I guess it's a case, proverbially at least, of putting my money where my mouth is.

    If you are a product, equipment, machinery or plant supplier, why not come over and participate in landscaping and gardening's specialist industry event?

    I'm delighted to welcome Stephen Ingram to the Landscape Juice Network as part of the Creating Landscapes' team.

    Stephen is an independent exhibition and event organiser having previously worked within the event market and have organised the likes of The Royal Smithfield Show, The CLA Game Fair, The National Amateur Gardening Show and The Royal Bath & West of England Show.

    For further details, you can email Stephen directly at stephen@hale-events.com Keep an eye out for the official launch.


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    '

    26 Oct 2010

    Garden and Landscape Design Seminar, Saturday 29th January 2011

    Inspired: What drives successful design?

     

    Design is borne of many things; Ego, empathy , passion, skill, history, belief, knowledge, vision, bravery, economy and emotion all play their part in stimulating designers to solve problems, satisfy desires and overcome challenges. What drives and constitutes successful design is a somewhat more complex issue. While consensus may be reached on intent, function and aesthetics, the shifting sands of time alter perception, attitude and environment making it an essentially ephemeral agreement; And one which design professionals have debated for eons.

     

    To frame a contemporary vision of what drives successful design, the Garden and Landscape Design Association (GLDA) have enlisted the genius of some of Europe’s most respect design professionals for a day of insight, opinion and debate. 

    Now in its 15th successful year, the GLDA design seminar, which is aptly entitled, Inspired: What drives successful design? Will take place on Saturday 29th of January at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. The speaker line-up for the eagerly awaited 2011 seminar features multi award-winning design professionals of national and international acclaim, including Tom Stuart-Smith, Róisín Heneghan of Heneghan Peng Architects, Hugh Ryan MGLDA and James Doyle of James Doyle Associates.

     

    As the design calendar event of the year places are already being snapped up. To secure your place at this exciting event you are encouraged to book early. For tickets and further information contact the GLDA office on: 01 2940092, info@glda.ie or via www.glda.ie.

     

    This event is proudly supported by Bord Bia, Ireland’s Food Board.

     

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    '

    21 Oct 2010

    Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) Conference

    Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) Conference

    The Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) are delighted to confirm details of their forthcoming conference on Monday November 22nd. The OGI were formed in 2008 and since then they have slowly gathered momentum around the country. This is the first conference that they are hosting and it takes place in Killcormac, Co Offaly (situated on the N52 between Birr and Tullamore).  Presentations on the day include topics such as Organic Seeds and Varieties, Super Valu Local Organic programme, Irrigation and Composting.  Watch this space for more details! 

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    '

    21 Oct 2010

    Hedgerow Survey Needs Your Help by RHS UK

    Hedgerow survey needs your help

    21 October 2010

    The hedgerow is home to much wildlife

    The hedge in your back garden may hold crucial information for scientists assessing the country's biodiversity as the latest 'citizen science' survey by the Open Air Laboratories Project (OPAL) gets under way.

    The OPAL team is inviting members of the public to collect as much information as possible about the hedges in back gardens, parks and open spaces all over the country, particularly in urban locations.

    'We know quite a lot about hedges in the countryside and how important they are, but how much biodiversity do they contain in cities?' said Jonathan Silvertown, head of the OPAL Biodiversity Observatory. 'They might be even more important in urban areas where natural habitats are more scarce.'

    How you can take part

    Hedges are already known to support a wide range of life, but the survey hopes to find out which hedges best support insects and small mammals. Participants select a three-metre stretch of hedge and record information about the appearance of the hedge, how many flowers, fruits and nuts it contains, which insects they find there and other evidence of animals using the hedge, such as holes and burrows.

    Once results arrive, they are placed on an online map and the survey team rates each hedge according to its importance for wildlife, building up a picture of the state of hedgerows around the country.

    Other surveys

    The biodiversity survey is the fifth in a series of surveys carried out under the five-year OPAL project, set up in 2007 with a grant from the Big Lottery Fund. Other projects already under way that you can join in with include:

    • Assessing earthworm populations
    • Air quality
    • The health of ponds, rivers and streams.
    Thousands of results have already been collected and a final report bringing together conclusions from all the projects is to be published in late 2012.((tag: HortiNews, horticulture, fresh produce, news, trends, Ireland, ))

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    '

    21 Oct 2010

    2020 Vision - Improving Ireland’s biodiversity knowledge base

    2020 Vision - Improving Ireland’s biodiversity knowledge base

    The National Biodiversity Data Centre has produced a knowledge gaps document 2020 Vision - Improving Ireland’s biodiversity knowledge base as one output from the recent Biodiversity Knowledge Quest event hosted by the Centre. The document provides a brief summary of the biodiversity knowledge gaps workshops and proposes a list of the key knowledge gaps that could be filled over the next 10 years. This document is a consultation document. 

    Interested parties are invited to make written submissions on the content of the document to info@biodiversityireland.ie. Submissions should be received by Friday 29 October 2010.

    Feedback is particularly sought on two questions; 

    1. Would filling of the key knowledge gaps listed in Table 1 make a significant contribution to expanding our knowledge base over the next 10 years? 

    2. Are there any gaps or errors in the tables presented in Appendix I? 

    The document can be downloaded from http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/Knowledge-Gaps-Document-_for-consultation_.pdf

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    '

    21 Oct 2010

    Minister Launches Research Call and Research Newsletter

    Following on from the Food Harvest 2020 Report, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD, has announced details of a €10 million Research Call across the Department's three competitive research programmes: FIRM (Food Institutional Research Measure), RSF (Research Stimulus Fund) and COFORD (Competitive Forest Research for Development).


    The Minister reaffirmed his belief that a vibrant Agri-Food Industry is a key part of the Smart Economy and will play a key role in leading our country to better economic times. The Minister said "the importance of research and innovation was emphasised in the Food Harvest 2020 Report as a prerequisite to achieving the growth targets for the agrifood sector. In response to the Report I am therefore delighted to launch these very significant research initaitives".

    Under FIRM a number of initiatives have been developed which will build on existing research capacity and capability and will add value to existing research outputs whilst also delivering new knowledge to underpin the future development of the food industry. The industry itself has been very involved in informing the content of the Call under the remit of the AgriVision 2015 Food Industry Research Group chaired by Dan Browne. The Minister stressed that "the outputs of the research will provide the basis to deliver on a number of the growth targets outlined in Food Harvest 2020.  One of those targets is to increase the production of milk by 50% over the next 10 years and one of the initiatives under the FIRM programme will provide the scientific knowledge to add value to this sector".

    Through the Stimulus programme the Department has committed substantial resources to agriculture based research, resulting in the development of significant research capacity. The Department wishes to further strengthen this capability by supporting the development of a collaborative research network on climate change in agriculture. This network will assist the development of sustainable high calibre integrated multidisciplinary collaborative research effort and will facilitate greater participation in International Collaborative Research Initiatives in this field.

    The Minister added that "in addressing the issue of competitiveness, a joint FIRM/Stimulus initiative will also be launched".

    In forestry research, proposals relating to forest reproductive material and forest health and protection will be invited from Irish research institutions. Both of these research areas are vital to the productivity and well being of the forest resource, especially in times of the predicted environmental impacts from climate change.

    Minister Smith stated that "benefits from projects funded under the Research Call  will accrue not only to producers and processors but also to the wider rural community". They will also contribute to improved collaboration between various research institutions and the establishment of critical mass in the respective research areas.

    Further details of the research call are published on the Department's website. 

    The Minister also announced the publication of the 1st edition of a new Department Newsletter - Research News . This Newsletter, produced by DAFF's Research Division, will be circulated on a quarterly basis to all DAFF's research stakeholders. It is designed to give an overview of research funded by DAFF primarily under its three competitive funding programmes (FIRM, Stimulus & COFORD), to alert researchers of EU and other international funding opportunities, and to update readers on related policy developments.  The Minister said "The launch of Research News is part of a communications strategy intended to keep relevant parties better informed of the nature, extent and value of DAFF's on-going commitment to investing in agri-food & forestry research and innovation which is seen as a priority for the future under Food Harvest 2020". The Newsletter is available to download from the DAFF website .

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    '

    20 Oct 2010

    DEFRA to reduce resource spending by 29% and capital spending by 34% 2010 to 2010. Ireland to Follow?

    Over the course of the Spending Review period, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will reduce resource spending by 29% and capital spending by 34%. The Department’s Administration budget will be reduced by 33%.

    Departmental Expenditure Limit (DEL)

    £ billion
    2010-112011-122012-132013-142014-15
    Resource DEL2.32.22.12.01.8
    Capital DEL0.60.40.40.40.4
    TOTAL DEL 2.92.62.52.32.2

    In this table Resource DEL excludes depreciation

    Defra will reprioritise its spending, focusing tax payer’s money on British farming and food production; enhancing the environment and biodiversity; and supporting a green economy resilient to climate change.

    The Department will manage its reductions by:

    Maximising the use of matched European funding for the Rural Development Programme for England, enabling a £66m reduction in domestic contributions. This will allow environmental stewardship schemes to remain open to all farmers. Defra will prioritise schemes that will be most beneficial to the environment, increasing the  Higher Level Stewardship Scheme by 80%.

    • An expected 15% efficiency saving will be made in the procurement strategy for flood and coastal defences. Savings achieved from this will be reinvested into safeguarding and enhancing protection for people and properties. It is estimated that by March 2015, better levels of protection can be expected for 145,000 households in England.
    • Making more efficient use of resources for animal welfare and disease prevention and control, by taking forward proposals to involve the industry in sharing the responsibility and cost of disease control.
    • Abolishing British Waterways as a public corporation in England and Wales; a new waterways charity will be created.
    • Funding will be stopped for 7 waste PFI projects, saving £3 million by 2014-15 and more in the longer term.

    Reducing waste and bureaucracy:

    • Reducing the number of quangos Defra funds from 92 to 39.
    • Reducing red tape and unnecessary burdens on farmers and food producers, without compromising standards. The task force on Farming Regulation will report by early 2011.

    Making efficiencies

    • Reducing administration costs by £174m through reductions in staff numbers, more efficient IT and procurement practices; increased use of shared services across Government; reducing the size and cost of Defra’s corporate estate.

    In addition to the above, the Department will be adopting the following idea, suggested through the Spending Challenge process:

    • Reforming the Environment Agency’s staff lease car scheme – saving up to £3m per year.

    Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said:

    “Our strategic aim is to deliver on the Prime Minister’s pledge that the Coalition will be the greenest Government ever, whilst playing our part in tackling the economic deficit that we have inherited.

    “This settlement reflects the need to make significant savings alongside meeting the priorities we have set and maintaining important frontline services in respect of flood defences, environmental protection and animal health monitoring.”

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    '

    20 Oct 2010

    Compost Quality Assurance Scheme Tender

    Compost Quality Assurance Scheme Tender 
    Source: rx3
    -------------------------------------------------------------
    RX3 - Rethink Recycle RemakeRx3 published a request for tenders for a compost quality assurance scheme on 6th October 2010 on the e–tenders website. The closing date for the procurement process is 16th November 2010. 

    International market driven quality assurance schemes have long been recognised as having a positive impact on collection and treatment of organic waste in other jurisdictions as well as the on quality of the compost produced. In Ireland, it is considered that the development of a compost quality assurance scheme will instil further confidence in consumers as to the quality of, and benefits to, using compost products. A quality mark/logo/label, as part of a compost quality assurance scheme, will also assist consumers in identifying high quality compost products. 

    The purpose of this Request for Tenders is to appoint a contractor to conduct a 3–phase project:

    • (i) to develop a compost quality assurance scheme and associated documentation (Phase 1);
    • (ii) to trial the compost quality assurance scheme for a 12 months (Phase 2);
    • (iii) to operate on a pilot basis the compost quality assurance scheme for a further 12 months (Phase 3).

    This proposal is being developed in accordance with the recommendations in the Market Development Programme for Waste Resources 2007 - 2011, which is sponsored by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 

    Further information and documentation relating to this notice is available on the eTenders Web Site athttp://www.etenders.gov.ie/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=OCT175257 

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    '

    18 Oct 2010

    HORTI FAIR 2010 LAYS FIRM BASIS FOR INTERNATIONAL HORTIWEEK 2011

    Powerful innovation platform attracts quality visitors

     

    Amsterdam, 15 October 2010 – The International Horti Fair is strengthening its position as an innovation platform and its focus on internationally-oriented horticultural businesses. With this in mind, the International HortiWeek was announced during the Horti Fair, which was held this year in the Amsterdam RAI Exhibition and Convention Centre from 12 to 15 October. Horti Fair 2010 was a successful, high calibre trade exhibition which put great emphasis on innovation, knowledge exchange and actually doing business.  

     

    Satisfied participants

    Although the 2010 fair was compacter than previous editions as it had 530 exhibitors from 36 countries, it was just as complete as in other years. For four whole days the Horti Fair House of Technology & Innovation was the centre of debates and interviews with key players in the horticultural industry. According to the jury members, the quality of the products on display in the House of Quality ranged from good to very good. A Horti Fair pavilion such as Career Plaza clearly meets a need as it brought more than 1,200 students and school pupils into contact with the horticultural industry.

     

    The exhibitors were very satisfied with the quality of the visitors. Patrick Lek of Lek/Habo Groep BV commented, ‘We’re certainly not dissatisfied: the mood has been positive and we have been visited by many people with investment plans, which is, after all, where it all starts. As a business, you have to be here. And despite all the focus on abroad, we are certainly not forgetting our Dutch visitors.’  Roy O’Mahony of CleanGrow, which was shortlisted for the Horti Fair Innovation Award and ended in fourth place, said, ‘We have achieved maximum exposure here and met very interested and well-informed visitors from all over the world and many key players. An amazing week!’   

     

    International Horti Week 2011

    Next year, the Horti Fair will be held from Tuesday 1 to Friday 4 November 2011. This will be during the first edition of the International HortiWeek, the week during which both the Horti Fair and the FloraHolland Trade Fair are held in association with one another. Joint promotion, carefully coordinated exhibition concepts and shuttle services will be elements of the cooperation between them. Other hot items will be the linking of the home market and internationalisation.  

     

    New director of the Horti Fair

    There are other changes as well, because Frans-Peter Dechering will be the new director of the Horti Fair from 1 January. He will succeed Wim van der Loo, who is retiring. Dechering has long international experience of horticulture. He has built up a large network of contacts in both the vegetable and floriculture sectors and among suppliers to Dutch and foreign horticulture firms. ‘The horticultural industry is changing and the Horti Fair is changing with it,’ comments Dechering. ‘Cooperating with the participants to ensure that the Horti Fair fulfils a proper commercial function and at the same time strengthening horticulture nationally and internationally will be a real challenge and involve a lot of hard work.’ Besides the fresh blood for the executive board and this summer’s appointment of the new chairman, Ewald van Vliet, the establishment of the exhibition committee and the introduction of the International HortiWeek, the Horti Fair has taken major steps towards strengthening its position as a leading national and international horticultural showcase for the coming years.

     


    Visitors from over 70 countries

    The daily Breakfast Briefings held before the fair opened pulled in more visitors and participants than last year. The Horti Fair itself attracted 23,256 trade visitors from over 70 countries. Almost 80% of the visitors to the Horti Fair 2010 took or were involved in decisions on the purchase of products and services exhibited at the fair. 35% of the visitors actually made a purchase or requested a quotation during the fair. The prospects for next year are good: no fewer than three quarters of the visitors stated that they planned to return in 2011.  

     

    Horti Fair Innovation Award 

    The Horti Fair Innovation Award 2010 was won by Berg Product BV for its BergBand conveyor belt system, which was praised in the jury report for ‘the power of its simplicity, the wide range of applications in horticulture both in the Netherlands and abroad, and the relatively low capital outlay’. Second place went to Frans van Zaal for its Van Zaal Container Submerger System, and third place to Bercomex for its Furora universal grading and bunching machine. For the first time in the history of the award, numbers 4 and 5 were also named. These were CleanGrow for its ‘multi-ion meter’ and the consortium represented by Klimrek for its ‘vertical crop protection’. As international trade jury chairman Gijs Kok noted, ‘This shows just how closely the top shortlisted firms are matched in terms of innovative capacity.’ Bas Lagerwerf of Berg Product was pleased with the award and satisfied with the quality of the visitors to his stand. He commented, ‘Dealers from all over the world come together here. After all, to see innovation you have to come to the Horti Fair!’

     

    Best Participant Award

    The Best Participant Award went to Bercomex for what the jury described as ‘the innovative strength shown throughout its exhibition presentation and the power of its communication both before and during the Horti Fair’. The award is presented each year to the exhibitor making the best use of Horti Fair as a communication instrument. Roland Kroese, managing director of Bercomex, says, ‘The Horti Fair is very important for our business. Not only as an opportunity to display innovations but also as a way of strengthening our dealer network and meeting customers who come from all over and whom we would not otherwise meet.’  

     

    Interpolis Quality Cup, plant stands and Csizik Trophy

    This year the Interpolis Quality Cup was awarded to the firm of Fa. G.J.A. van Santen of  Honselersdijk for its Hydrangea macrophylla Pimpernel Classic. The prizes for the best stands in the plant categories were assigned by the Permanent Judging Committee (VKC) to Floricultura (9.7), Anthura (9.5) and Floriade (9.3). The Csizik Trophy for the most attractive flower arrangement at a stand was won by Zuidkoop Natural Projects.

     

    Prospects for Horti Fair 2011 already good

    Interest in the Horti Fair 2011, which will be held under the umbrella of the International HortiWeek, is already good. ‘Contracts have already been signed and over 80 options for stand space have already been taken,’ says Wim van der Loo, the departing director. ‘In all my years as director of Horti Fair I have never before experienced anything like this. The exhibition concept of the Horti Fair 2011 in Amsterdam RAI, the cooperation with FloraHolland, the Technical Trials and other horticultural initiatives geared to the International HortiWeek in the first week of November 2011 are clearly proving popular in the industry.’  

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    18 Oct 2010

    Transforming Ireland Seminar #20

    Transforming Ireland Seminar #20

    Date: Thursday, 21st October 2010

    Time: 12:30-14:00

    Venue: TCD-UCD Innovation Academy Space, 2-3 Fosters Place, Dublin 2 (map)

    Topics:

    Solar Energy:Reaching a new Solar Industry in Ireland - Mazhar Bari, CEO Solarprint

    Delivering Renewable Power to the People - Tim Cooper, Coolpower

    Abstract:

    Delivering Renewable Power to the People

    The Green Building in Temple Bar set out to demonstrate the viability of incorporating "state of the art" energy conservation and renewable energy technologies in a mixed use city centre building in 1994. These technologies included solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and small wind turbines that are typical of the renewable energy micro-generator installations being rolled out in huge numbers throughout Europe and the US.

    Ten years later support from SEAI and a Directive from the EU made it just about possible to "grid-connect" these micro-generators. Coolpower Limited was set up in the course of this to serve as a vehicle for operating these grid- connected micro-generators. This grid-connected system has operated continuously since then generating a total of c.12,000 kWh and more importantly creating the first and largest set of accurate performance data for grid-connected micro-generators in Ireland.

    Today Cool Power Products (a spin-off company from Cool Power Limited) manufactures EMMA (Energy and Micro-Generator Manager) control units which are used for optimising the output from small/micro-generators, stabilising networks and facilitating large scale deployment of distributed generation. EMMA GVS (Grid Voltage Stabilisation) allows micro-generators to be installed where there are network limits/constraints, allowing installations to proceed without the need for network upgrades. EMMA technology is CE certified and has being widely deployed with micro-generators across UK, Ireland and France.

    The presentation will give an overview of the development of EMMA technology, which is playing a key role in facilitating the roll-out of small and medium sized generators that are delivering clean sustainable renewable power directly to the people.

     

    To register for this seminar, please click here

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    '

    6 Oct 2010

    Request for Tenders - Compost Quality Assurance Scheme (CQAS)

    Title:Request for Tenders - Compost Quality Assurance Scheme (CQAS)
    Published by:Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government
    Publication Date:06/10/2010
    Application Deadline:
    Notice Deadline Date:17/11/2010
    Notice Deadline Time:15:00
    Notice Type:Invitation to Tender
    Has Documents:Yes
    Abstract:International market driven quality assurance schemes have long been recognised as having a positive impact on collection and treatment of organic waste in other jurisdictions as well as the on quality of the end-product (i.e. compost) itself.
    In Ireland, it is considered that the development of a compost quality assurance scheme will instil further confidence in consumers as to the quality of, and benefits to, using compost products. A quality mark/logo/label, as part of a compost quality assurance scheme, will also assist consumers in identifying high quality compost products.
    The purpose of this Request for Tenders is to appoint a contractor to conduct a 3–phase project: -
    (i) to develop a compost quality assurance scheme and associated documentation (Phase 1),
    (ii) to trial the compost quality assurance scheme for a 12 months (Phase 2), and
    (iii) to operate on a pilot basis the compost quality assurance scheme for a further 12 months (Phase 3).
    This proposal is being developed in accordance with the recommendations in the Market Development Programme for Waste Resources 2007 - 2011, which is sponsored by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

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    '

    6 Oct 2010

    Women and Agriculture Conference 2010

    Women and Agriculture Conference 2010
    Looking positively at ourselves, our families and our farming business is the theme of this year's Women and Agriculture conference which takes place on the 20th October in the Lyrath Hotel Kilkenny. This key event for farm women promises to be jam packed, informative, entertaining and fun day.

    Over 600 women attended last year's conference and the feedback was "do it again". Bookings are coming in so to be sure of your place log on to www.irishcountryliving.ie or phone 01 4051189 and book today. €50 per person includes lunch and teas.


    Programme for the Day

    9.00 Registration with tea/coffee and pastries

    9.30 Official Welcome, Matt Dempsey, Editor of Irish Farmers Journal

    9.40 Official Opening, Helen Brophy, CEO of National Dairy Council


    Session 1: Our farming business

    10.00 Up the Energy I

    10.10 Looking after your most valuable asset - Professor Patrick Wall, Associate Professor of Health, UCD

    11.00 Break

    11.20 Pension issues for farm families - Margaret Healy, Chairwoman of IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs Committee

    11.35 Real life family dilemmas from the Money Mentor including 5 key messages for farm families - Peter Young, Irish Farmers Journal

    12.15 Financial Matters including nursing home support, civil partnerships and co-habitation, transferring the family farm and what to expect in the Budget - Declan McEvoy, Senior Tax Planning Consultant with IFAC Accountants

    12.45 Questions

    1.00 Lunch


    Session 2: Ourselves and Our Families

    2.00 Up the Energy II

    2.10 Growing up together, dealing with teenagers and young adults and how best to manage the adult to adult relationship with the child who remains on the farm - David Coleman, Clinical Psychologist and popular presenter of RTE series, Families in Trouble and Teens in the Wild

    2.55 EU food labelling – understanding the health claims made for food - Dr Mary Flynn, Chief Specialist, Public Health Nutrition

    3.30 Flourishing under fire – "happiness is not an accessory in our lives but essential for survival, recovery and flourishing" - Dr Maureen Gaffney

    5pm Close with Mairead Lavery, Editor Irish Country Living

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    '

    5 Oct 2010

    Value or Premium, let the customer make a Choice

    Value or Premium, let the customer make a Choice

    John Stanley

    The last few years have been tough for many retailers. Many have relied on discounting to get them through a difficult retailing period, but the discount formula was always a short term measure and the winning retailers had to find a new strategy to ensure they could grow their business.

    The global recession has lasted longer than many predicted and as a result retailers have had to change tactics to grow their businesses.

    I first observed a strategic change coming from the fast food sector and I talk about this in the October edition of Retail World Report on my members site. As countries went into the recession many fast food companies benefited as consumers downgraded from more expensive restaurants and graduated towards cheaper food offers. In the USA, for example, the fast food retailers have trained their consumers into thinking about a hamburger as a known value product and as a result they have been forced to keep the product below the five dollar price barrier to ensure they generated traffic to their stores. This policy can only last so long before increasing costs and the need to improve the bottom line means a new strategy has to be developed.

    The fast food retailers had a dilemma; they could not destroy the loyalty they had built with the $4.99 customer market, but at the same time they needed to attract new customers whom they wanted to spend more plus they wanted existing customers to spend more too.

    The answer was to keep their existing range and price structure, but create a new category in store that was more profitable and market this to their consumer base.

    Value and Premium

    The solution was to develop the existing product range as a Value range and to introduce a new range at a Premium level. This strategy resulted in deluxe hamburgers and ribs being introduced into the menu at a much higher price point.

    In the UK it has resulted in MacDonald’s developing an upmarket coffee strategy and in 2009 that meant they moved over 84 million cups of coffee. According to an article in the Daily Mail [Sept 23, 2010] the next stage is to develop espresso coffee as a premium product.

    The Premium and Value approach is not confined to fast food; supermarkets are also going down the same avenue. In the same newspaper it was reported the Sainsbury’s have launched a “Taste the Difference“ range which will be promoted by Jamie Oliver the celebrity chef. Sainsbury’s have launched a Premium range that contains 1,100 different S.K.U’s and one billion pounds worth of sales last year. Research carried out by Kantar Worldpanel [Daily Mail 23 Sept 2010] highlighted that the supermarkets that have seen the fastest growth in the last twelve months have developed a value and a premium strategy. One reason for the growth is that consumers are shifting from restaurants to home cooking using premium products in a tight economy.

    How Does this Apply to You?

     

    How does this apply to you? The changes taking place in the food industry in developing a value and premium range are just as important for any retailer. The market is changing and many would argue that the middle price point products are disappearing. Some buying decisions are being made on value, whilst on the same shopping trip other decisions are being made based on premium buying decisions, products positioned in the middle range are today often overlooked by consumers.

    This means that every retailer needs to stand back and relook at the category range they are stocking and ask themselves:

    1.       

     Do we have a value range and are we promoting it as such?

    2.        Is there a premium range and is this being promoted as a premium range?

    3.        What products do we have in the middle of the range and should they be on the shelf?

    And what about the Discounting?

    Discounting strategies will continue and are needed to ensure products stay fresh in the customers eyes. The most successful large retailer, Tesco, has a very successful discount policy and use it as a customer draw. The company has a policy of graduated discounting, which is something all retailers need to adopt. It is based on product life cycles and set time limits, all stock is monitored. The discount starts at 25%, then moves to 50% and then to75%.  Once a product passes a certain time date in the UK it is sold for a penny as it goes through the till.  According to the website moneysavingexperts.com they recently monitored 50 items at one time that were being managed in this way.

    The key is to manage the stock and to ensure stock turn is profitable.

    John Stanley conducts monthly training on his Members site that helps all retailers keep up with current changes in the marketplace.  Visit his website for details www.johnstanley.com.au

    John Stanley is WA Entrepreneur of the Year 2009 and his business JSA is WA Small Business Champion – Education 2009. He is an acclaimed conference speaker, retail consultant and author.  For more information on how he can help your business grow, visit his website www.johnstanley.com.au, or his resources site www.johnstanleyretailguru.com.au

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    4 Oct 2010

    Amenity Trees and Woodlands: A Guide to their Management in Ireland

    Amenity Trees and Woodlands: A Guide to their Management in Ireland

    The Tree Council of Ireland in association with the Arboricultural Association [Irish Branch] and the Society of Irish Foresters present a seminar on Amenity Trees and Woodlands: A Guide to their Management in Ireland

    Monday, 18th October  2010

    National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Co. Dublin

    Amenity trees and woodlands are an indispensable part of our everyday landscape, helping to create places where people want to live, work and play. Planning and managing the resource, particularly within the built-up environment, requires the input of a wide range of professionals and stakeholders. It also requires an awareness and understanding of best practice, both in relation to individual tree care and overarching issues.

    Click here to download further information, programme and booking form in PDF format [PDF 506K]

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    '

    29 Sep 2010

    Colour Your Life October Newsletter

    Heading
    Colour your Life presents.... October 2010
    ‘Ever stylish’ with a selection of conifers 

    You can generate lots of interest in the planteria in autumn and what better plant group to focus on than conifers? 

    They must be the ultimate plant group for year-round appeal. Any weather, any season, almost any soil, they are there delivering structure, style and environmental benefits. 

    There is always a demand for conifers because of this. 

    But what is the magic recipe to translate that into sales?


    It’s as easy as 1,2,3

    You can boost plant sales with skilful use of POS, positioning and by highlighting their benefits.

    Download your FREE POS now from the Colour your Life website!

    Use our tutorial to find out how to personalise your POS by adding your own logo or go straight to the poster service to try it yourself. You can download high resolution images to print yourself or alternatively you can use the poster printing service to have them printed and sent to you at a reasonable cost.


    See more...

    Style, fun & function

    These are key concepts to have in mind. Conifers are so diverse, you can maximise visual value in-store by including varieties with unusually coloured leaves or exciting shapes. Many of the golden conifers available in this country are dwarf varieties which can provide colour and interest in tight spaces, when many other garden plants are dormant. 
    Dwarf species, (e.g. Pinus mugo) are full of natural humour. Take ‘Mops’ that almost spherical little tree that works so well in beds and borders, or Pinus pumila (Dwarf Siberian pine). 

    And it isn’t just the benefit of what we see, it has been proven scientifically that the needles of conifers trap and neutralise those deadly disease-causing particulates, thereby improving air quality around our homes and workplaces. This is a strong promotional message that will have resonance with today’s customers.

    Some more species suggestions for special promotion


    Colour your Life makes big splash at GLEE!

    Did you make it to the Colour your Life seminar at GLEE on September 22nd? It was great, with retail guruPhil Rogers (IKEA, ASDA and Warner Bros) and Mark Long (Director of PPH UK bureau) offering some great ideas on how to engage with customers, get more out of Colour your Life and benefit from theGreen Community Award.

    We had loads of feedback from the floor with some leading retailers including Paul Cooling (Coolings Nurseries) and Neil Gow(Burcot Garden Centre) contributing their thoughts to the session. Gillie Westwood (Chief Executive GCA) commented on the changes in our industry and Steve Fry of Dorset Based Gardens Group spoke on the benefits of being involved in the Green Community Award. Gary Buttle from Ned Yates’ garden centre spoke about the benefits of using Colour your Life POS. If you didn’t make it, don’t worry... 

    You can see a copy of Phil's Top Retail Tips by clicking here....


    Have you seen the poster service tutorial?

    The online poster service is brilliant and we can vouch personally  for the quality of the materials available. Why not have a look at the tutorial film on Youtube? It takes you through the steps to create wonderful POS that will help to boost sales in-store.

    Just look at what some campaign users have to say about its benefits:


    X Factor - Now plants have their own talent show!

    At this year’s Plantarium trade show in Boskoop, organisers trialled a new idea – a catwalk style show for new plants. Run with suitable razamataz (plus some very lovely assistants) the plants strutted their stuff before an admiring, yet critical audience.  Find out what plants stole the show...


    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    29 Sep 2010

    HortiFair News 2010

    New products, new philosophy'

    "Where we are concerned, the Horti Fair is the trade show for introducing new products and communicating our new philosophy. This is very visible in the new logo in a clear and fresh shade of blue, instead of the familiar 31-year old green logo. 
    And we will be pleased to explain the change on the stand,’’ says Ruud van Gils from Saint-Gobain Cultilène (stand 02.0206).

    'Cultilène cares' is the substrate supplier's philosophy. ,,We supply not just substrate products but services as well, besides assisting our customers in choosing the best growth medium. With respect for our living environment, naturally. Because all our products are made from natural raw materials and contribute to the use of less water, energy and nutrients," explains Van Gils. As well as the new philosophy and new products, the Cultilène stand will also be showcasing the X-fibre technique. Cultilène is the sole substrate supplier that uses this technique to produce an optimum imitation of the natural root environment for plants.

    lijntje

    House of Software: third successful edition on its way

    For the third year in succession, the House of Software will be one of the extra attractions at the trade exhibition for professional (greenhouse) horticulture.Participants in this pavilion represent all links in the chain from breeder through retailer. This special interest pavilion (stand 01.0428) provides visitors with a complete and future-focused picture of the latest developments in software for greenhouse horticulture.

     

    The Horti Fair internetcafé is part of this pavilion, where participants also introduce new products and services, such as the low threshold step-up to software updates from Sercom. New products and services from other participants like Distel Software, Florecom, Hawe Systems Europe, SDF Tuinbouwautomatisering and Wevab have not yet been announced. Discussions are still in progress with a number of sector colleagues concerning their participation in the Horti Fair House of Software. 

    The oldest of the companies has been specializing in horticulture for no less than fifty years and they are all presenting a wide range of products: advice/communications, automation, control systems, certification, internal transport and delivery systems, logistical systems (software), management software, software applications for horticulture, and registration programs.

    lijntje

    Opening and Happy Hour: 12 October

    Participants at and associates of the Horti Fair will shortly be receiving their invitations for the official opening of the Horti Fair from 09.00 to 10.00 hours on Tuesday 12 October in the Horti Fair Stage in hall 6 of the Amsterdam RAI. The opening will be performed by Ewald van Vliet, the new chairman of the International Horti Fair, who will discuss the added value of the trade show supported by horticulture in a period of ongoing internationalization, virtualization and changing competition.

    The second theme of the opening is 'Innovation', in the context of which the prestigious Horti Fair Innovation Award will be presented to one of the participants nominated for this prize.

    The first day of the Horti Fair will be brought to a close with exhibitors, guests and associates during a Happy Hour that starts at 18.00 hours (walk-in 17.30 hours) on Tuesday 12 October. 

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    27 Sep 2010

    Glee is not a landscaping or gardening show

    Glee is not a landscaping or gardening show

    by 
    Philip Voice

    RotovatorLet's end it here and now. Glee (that's the garden centre and pet product exhibition at NEC Birmingham and not the popular TV programme of the same name) is not, never was and never will be, a place to promote the world of landscaping and horticulture.

    The Emap marketing machine has been allowed to generate whirls of positive spin, unchallenged - but aided and abetted by the trade press - for far too long.

    I've not read or heard one positive review from a landscaper or gardener who has attended the show and it proves - to me at least - what Dan Thurlow told me about doing more for our industry was just not true (if I'm wrong here Dan, I'd be happy to be shown otherwise).

    Emap have got to be honest with us all, and themselves and return the show to grass roots level and that is, first and foremost, as a pet and garden centre event. I told Emap before, we do not want our exhibitions stands to be tucked away behind the pet stands as an afterthought.

    Landscaping and gardening is a serious business and it contributes a great deal of money to the UK economy so it deserves to be treated with more respect.

    I did a search on the Glee website using the search words "landscape" or "landscaping" and it returned just 10 results.

    I know my comments may stimulate a debate amongst Glee supporters that my intention is just to knock other shows because it's mine and Landscape Juice's intention to run our own event.

    Let me dispel any of these thoughts before they grow roots. Yes we are going to put on an industry event for landscapers and gardeners in 2011 - and the integral and peripheral businesses that go hand in hand - but Creating Landscapes (as the show will be named) has grown from need: in a way, I've decided to put my money and reputation where my mouth is and I've spent the last eighteen months or more talking and listening to the industry practitioners who feel left out and neglected.

    There just isn't an event for landscapers and gardeners that is centric to their needs - Landscape Juice, in conjunction with our partners - Hale Events - have worked hard to research what has been missing so we can deliver a rich and profitable experience.

    As always, I want to hear your comments and if you are a landscaper or gardener and you did think it was worthwhile attending or if you are a an exhibitor who sells to landscapers and gardeners and you feel the show was benefit then please do leave a comment.

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    '

    27 Sep 2010

    "Operation Chip It" News

    "Operation Chip It" News September, 2010

    Andersons Transport: “We plan to use RFID to its full potential!”

    There is a great deal of concern about the implementation of RFID in the horticultural industry supply chain. This is understandable as the introduction of new technology or significant change always takes some getting used to in the beginning. However, RFID is widely used already, but we don’t even notice it: At toll roads, in supermarkets, at the airport, in hospitals, etc. Before long RFID will be an integral part of horticultural logistics too.


    Andersons Transport

    Andersons Transport is a full transport service provider that has been operating in the UK for more than 40 years. They are eagerly awaiting the technology that will allow the horticultural supply chain to advance further. 

    “It is clear that the CC Container pool is affected by the intrusion of the counterfeit containers,” says Scott Cumming, Project Manager at Andersons Transport. “Clearing up this problem is something that should be a priority for the industry and resolving it by introducing RFID is in our opinion an added benefit.”

     


    Andersons Transport and changes to the industry

    “I am convinced that Andersons Transport will benefit significantly from taking a proactive approach in embracing the introduction of RFID technology,” says Scott Cumming. “It is clear that early adopters of the new technology who communicate effectively with their clients will be able to enhance their customer offer, and they will create enhanced benefits to each end of the supply chain.”

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    27 Sep 2010

    Tree Council of Ireland "Bliain na Beithe". "Year of the Birch "

    "Bliain na Beithe". "Year of the Birch ".

    On Thursday, 7 October 2010 primary school children all over Ireland are encourage to put away their school books and spend the day learning about trees in a fun, relaxed and engaging environment.  The aim of ‘Tree Day’ is to create a learning experience that will enthuse and enlighten all children by making them aware of the magic, beauty and importance of trees and the wider environment. The event is sponsored by Tetra Pak tetrapak logoand supported by the Department of Education and Science. Many schools take the opportunity to

    participate in guided woodland walks at over 120 locations throughout the country. These walks are hosted by Tree Council member organisations including Coillte, the National Parks & Wildlife Service, the Heritage Service of the OPW, the Dublin local authorities and private owners.

    Tree Day was first held in 1997 and has since grown from strength to strength with hundreds of thousands of pupils estimated to have taken part in a woodland walk for the day.  It ensures that each child who passes through the primary school curriculum will have eight full days of education about trees during the primary school cycle. 

     tetrapak logo

    Tetra Pak Website

    To arrange a walk for your school please click here for details of a contact in your area

     

    Each year a different tree is celebrated on Tree Day. Tree Day 2010 will celebrate one of our most common natives, the birch tree.  A poster with the theme “The Year of the birch” has been circulated to all primary schools with a factsheet about birch.

     To support Tree Day, the Tree Council has developed a comprehensive resource pack on the subject of trees.  It is complimentary to the science syllabus of the school curriculum and covers over 40 topics on the subject of trees such as “why trees are planted,” “wildlife in woodlands” “trees in poetry” and a range of interesting and fun science experiments and worksheets to stimulate project work and practical activities, both in the classroom and in the school grounds.  The Tree Day Manual is available in all schools and is also free to download from the left column of this page.school children dressed as witches on broom

     

     

     

     

    Eanna Ni Lamhna, Vice President, Tree Council of Ireland with some schoolchildren at the National Botanic Gardens where details of Tree Day 2010 were announced. Posing with a birch tree above and the broom called a besom - a broom made from birch twigs. 

     

     

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    '

    27 Sep 2010

    Organic Promotion Launched In UK

    Organic Promotion Launched In UK

    The UK Organic Trade Board (OTB) is to launch a £2million campaign following its successful application to the EU for matching funding for the £1 million it has raised from the organic business world. The OTB was set up by the organic industry to develop, promote and support organic trade. One of its key objectives is to double the value of the market for organic products in the UK within the period 2008 to 2013.

    A website www.whyiloveorganic.co.uk is already in operation and the main campaign will start in September, with press ads running towards the end of the year in conjunction with PR and digital promotion.

    A modest growth in the organic market is expected in 2010 following a fall in sales in 2009. Huw Bowles, Chairman of the OTB, said the campaign would “give us a great chance for growth in all organic sectors so sales start to increase again. We’re not forcing consumers to subscribe to all the benefits we mention, but simply consider making the switch if they haven’t already.”

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    '

    27 Sep 2010

    Horticulture Teaching Job Available

    Teaching job available

    Basic details and application form are available from the VEC here….

    It’s 16 hours a week. Phone the college on 063 83604 for more info on what would be involved.

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    25 Sep 2010

    CC - RFID Scanner Deadline October 15th 2010

    After a long selection process and several rounds of equipment testing, Container Centralen has certified Nordic ID and PANMOBIL as suppliers of RFID scanners to the European horticultural industry.

    Both suppliers have scanners that are capable of supporting the RFID solution that has been developed in co-operation with IBM. All scanners are able to clearly verify the authenticity of the CC Container. Other features, integration options and prices vary, and are explained in more detail below.

    To ensure that you receive your scanners in due time before January 10, 2011, the suppliers recommend that you make your order no later than October 15, 2010.

    Download a brief RFID scanner overview

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    '

    25 Sep 2010

    Greenmount Floristry Student at the RHS Tatton Park Show

    Greenmount Floristry Student, Valerie Clarke, writes on her experiences behind the scenes at the RHS Tatton Park Show….

    I finished my Floristry course at Greenmount Campus in June 2010 and was thrilled to be invited to help leading UK designer, Amanda Canning, with her floristry demonstrations at the RHS Tatton Park Show in July.  I was accompanied by my two friends Dorothy Blair and Pat Hunter whom I met and trained with at Greenmount.  

    Our first experience at Tatton involved joining a willing band of volunteers within the British Florist Association marquee to prepare costumes for a Catwalk Show featuring West End musicals.  We made a range of body adornments for the dancers and quickly learned that everything has to be BIG for the stage. We also contributed by making a range of accessories to enhance the costumes.  For example, Pat made a beautiful bustle for ‘My Fair Lady’ and Dorothy and I made the head for beast in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ – it’s wonderful what you can do with floristry materials!   

    The highlight of our trip was supporting and assisting Amanda in her floristry demonstrations.  We assisted with the preparations for the designs, stage design set up and scene changes and, of course, learning to be in the right place at the right time so that our designer was presented with everything she needed to complete her creations.  We also had a bird’s eye view behind the stage as Amanda completed an outstanding range of commercial floristry designs.

    The BFA marquee also hosted the International Design Competition for 18-25 year olds which took place over the three days we were there.  It was a privilege to see such talented florists push the boundaries of traditional floristry to create a host of stunning creations.  It was truly inspiring to see these young people at work and amazing to see the variety of designs that were created using the same materials.    

    On the last day of the trip we visited ‘The Flower and Plant Works’ flower shop in Runcorn run by Amanda and her sister Barbara. We saw first hand how all the floristry training at Greenmount was applied within a successful high street florist.  We all wanted to work there but sadly there were no vacancies!

    Floristry students celebrating at Greenmount Campus Awards Day in June. Valerie Clarke (2nd left) was awarded the prize for First Overall in Floristry
    Floristry students celebrating at Greenmount Campus Awards Day in June. Valerie Clarke (2nd left) was awarded the prize for First Overall in Floristry

    Leading UK floristry designer, Amanda Canning, (back) taking a break from her demonstrations in the BFA marquee with Greenmount floristry students (from left) Dorothy Blair, Patricia Hunter and Valerie Clarke
    Leading UK floristry designer, Amanda Canning, (back) taking a break from her demonstrations in the BFA marquee with Greenmount floristry students (from left) Dorothy Blair, Patricia Hunter and Valerie Clarke

    Floral costumes for Beauty and the Beast in the BFA Catwalk Show.
    Floral costumes for Beauty and the Beast in the BFA Catwalk Show

    Some of the stunning work in the International Design Competition
    Some of the stunning work in the International Design Competition

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

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    '

    23 Sep 2010

    Product to Shopper Experience by John Stanley

    Product to Shopper Experience
    John Stanley

    The changes in retailing seem to be happening at a faster pace than ever. Keeping up can be a real challenge. A new word seems to be creeping into the retail vocabulary: shopcentric.

    I first noticed the word in reports coming out of mainland Europe, but what is shopcentric all about?  It is about a shift in thinking processes.  It is about being less concerned about the product being sold and more concerned about providing the right experience for the consumer.

    Some organisations are using other words that mean the same thing. Shopping malls are emphasising that they are "Activity Centres" rather than places you just go to shop. Whatever word you use to describe it, the emphasis has turned to creating a shopping experience rather than just selling "stuff".

    What does this mean for retailers?   It means retailers have to focus more on the consumer and their needs and wants than in the past. Many retailers will argue that they have always focused on the consumer, but now it has become more fashionable for more retailers to do this and as a result the competition for this space has become more aggressive.
     
    What do you need to focus on to provide a point of difference?

    My first concern is that the word “experience" is now overdone. A recent launch of an American shopping centre was heralded as a "New Shopping Experience”.  The latest marketing from Jakarta in Indonesia is 'Family weekend shopping experience in Jakarta".

    The trouble is not many people believe in the headline any more.  For example, 56% of American shoppers "cross shop" on a regular basis when purchasing a product. In other words the so called experience has not bought customer loyalty.

    There are exceptions and Starbucks, Anthropologie and Abercrombie and Fitch shoppers are good examples of consumers who are true followers due to the experience they have experienced in those stores.

    Creating an experience or being shopcentric means following some specific guidelines in retailing that other retailers either do not implement or do badly or inconsistently.

    In 2004 Indiana University produced a report entitled "Creating the Ideal Shopping Experience."  They interviewed consumers to identify what they preferred. It is not the actual results that I find interesting for today's retailers, it is their approach and how that research technique can be adapted to any retail situation.
     
    The report was split into five segments:
     
    Must Have .  The first question asked of consumers was what must a retailer provide?  The answers were what you would expect. Knowledgeable staff, customer service, cash and credit card payment facilities, product availability and cashiers and people to bag your products. The challenge is if you did a similar survey in your store, what would be the MUST HAVES
     
    Should Have.  This was the second question asked of consumers and the response included promotional flyers, staff having computer access to find out information, products signed, a map of the store, products individually priced. Again this may be "common sense", but I recently worked with a retailer where computer access was banned as the owner felt that the sales team could not be trusted to use the computer professionally.
     
    Nice to Have.  This was the third part of the survey and looked at what the consumer considered to be a bit of luxury when they were shopping. It got the consumer to think about the shopping experience and this was the core of the survey. The challenge is what would the consumer feel were the nice-to-haves in your store; this would probably revolve around extra services rather than more products.
     
    Indifferent.  This part of the survey focused on what you may feel is important, but your customer felt it did not make a difference to their shopping experience.  Too often as retailers we focus on the wrong things in the customer eyes and we could be focusing on the wrong areas of developing the business.
     
    Prefer not to have.  The final question focused on the things customers would prefer not to have in their shopping experience, comments like a dirty store became one of the issues in the customers mind.

    As I mentioned, this survey was carried out six years ago and the results would not apply to retailers today. The key issue is how would your clients complete such a survey and how you manage and implement the suggestions and ideas that are offered.

    You may argue, quite rightly, that you are already providing an experience for your customer base. My challenge to you is that providing an experience has now become trendy and all sorts of retailers and shopping centres are now joining the band wagon.  This means that everyone in the experience economy needs to improve their game to ensure they impress their customers and provide a better experience than the retailer next door.

    Customers are not only comparing the experience you provide against other retailers that do what you do, but also against other retailers in other categories or industries.

    We have found this in our own town. Six months ago the experience retailers in town on a Sunday were the local garden centre and breakfast coffee shop. Both businesses have seen a drop in town once the farmers market opened during the same time period. The customers changed shopping habits for a better shopping experience even though the product sold was completely different.
     
    The Challenge
     
    The challenge for all retailers is to improve their game. This starts by asking the customer where they feel the business fits into the experience game.You need to know your strengths, weaknesses and opportunities. Once you have done that, work with the team to improve them. You will probably find that the opportunities fall into specific groups. Most retailers find they split into customer service, services offered, merchandising and display and management issues. Create some action teams to address each area and come up with a plan to truly enhance the shopping experience.
     
    If you would like more information on experience retailing and would like to keep up with what is happening around the world, John Stanley has developed a low-cost, high-value means of doing just that and training your team every month at the same time.  For AUD$45 a month you can become a member of his exclusive club and stay ahead of your competition, watch his monthly TV program online, and train your team, visit his resource site www.johnstanleyretailguru.com.au to join up and start reaping benefits today.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    23 Sep 2010

    Retailing...are you the new social church? by John Stanley

    Retailing...are you the new social church?
    John Stanley

    Various reports have been produced on retailing in recent years that focus on why people go shopping. Some of these reports identify that consumers are driven by convenience and price. I agree that these are key drivers and the multitude of "box" stores and TV commercials will verify that this is the case for many retailers.
     
    Having said that, there is a fundamental change going on in some retail sectors that we need to be aware of. The consumer is re looking at their most precious commodity, TIME, and asking themselves how can they use it more effectively, but also how can they develop quality time within the community.
    The community is still an important factor for consumers and they still want to gather and connect as a community. Historically the village and town square became the focal point for the local population and the weekly market was a must be place to be seen, catch up on the latest local gossip and to connect as a community. The town square remained the centre of the community until the emergence of the supermarket. This resulted in consumers changing their shopping habits and as a result they would often go shopping and not engage with anyone else in the community whilst on that shopping trip.
     
    During the last twenty years this has become the main shopping focus. Out of town shopping complexes were developed and as a result the hub of many towns went into decline and the community suffered as a result.
     
    We are now in a period of change once more.  Consumers want their "Social Church" back and as a result we are seeing a number of changes in the way people plan to shop.
    What is Social Church?
     
    My definition of social church is where the community can gather and connect. This may take place at a market, a community hall, club, or of course, church. Over recent years the social church has become more segregated with consumers congregating in tribes based on age or hobbies rather than mixing as a community where all ages and interests get together and enjoy the community.
    Communities need to get together.  Alas in many communities in the last few decades people have moved in and out of houses and may not even know the neighbours; the result is a breakdown of the overall community.
    Consumers are now challenging this concept and as a result we are seeing a change in the way we retail and I believe this will be a trend rather than a fashion and retailing may have changed for decades as a result of it.
     
    Activity Centres
     
    The shopping mall is already seeing this evolution take place. Some estimates are that 50% of American shopping centres are already in decline and empty malls are now a common site in the USA.  The consumer has started to rebel against an experience where they are left in a controlled environment to walk along lines of global shops without much respite.
    The result has been the emergence of the main street in new "shopping villages" and architects beginning to design shopping centres that look more like town hubs than boxes with shops in them.
     
    In Australia we have the term "Activity Centres.”  An Activity Centre is where 50% of available rental space is made available to activities other than retailing. This means that libraries, night clubs, taverns and community halls are now being introduced into the same retail complex and a 24/7 community experience is on offer to local residents.
    The local farmers market traditionally was the "Social Church" for the community. The farmer would bring products direct from the farm and sell directly to a local community. In countries such as Italy, Spain and France the market has continued to be a community focus, but in many countries it went out of fashion as the supermarkets grew their market share.
     
    The Farmers Market is back and has become one of the fasted retail growing sectors, it is the ideal social church and many new Activity Centres have created a central plaza to allow the market to be reintroduced into the central hub of activities.
    My Book Shop Experience
     
    I recently had a meeting in a suburb of Perth and we planned to meet at Millpoint Cafe Bookshop, a business I was unfamiliar with. I was told it was an independent bookshop. The meeting was on a Friday morning.  I arrived at the book shop to find the place full of consumers, reading books, buying books and having a late breakfast or early lunch, in fact we had a challenge to find a seat.
     
    Here was an independent, locally owned bookshop that had discovered that if they could tap into Social Church they would have a thriving business.  The place I am told is humming like this every day of the week.

    What had they discovered
     
    1 You need to create a relaxing atmosphere to get consumers to linger longer
    2 The product does not dominate the experience; the customer needs space to enjoy the experience
    3 They provide social activities, spread in their case around authors, that are provided consistently and at various times of the day and the week
    4 The quality of the food and coffee is as important as the quality of the product they sell
    5 The customer is encouraged to linger longer
    6 The staff were exceptionally good at their interactive personal skills
    7 The team had a passion for the product and how the customer could enjoy it
    8 The environment was authentic and unique; you knew you were not in a globally designed retail environment
    All forms of retailing need to develop the social church niche. For some retailers it can be a broad church whilst others will develop a narrow church and build on the hobby or interest of their customers.

    The businesses that have an advantage are locally owned independent operators who are keen to develop their market penetration within the community.
     
    If you would like more information on how to create experiences for your customers, John Stanley has developed a low-cost, high-value means of doing just that and training your team every month at the same time.  For AUD$45 a month you can become a member of his exclusive club and stay ahead of your competition, watch his monthly TV program online, and train your team, visit his resource site www.johnstanleyretailguru.com.au to join up and start reaping benefits today.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    22 Sep 2010

    HortiFair 2010 News

    'Revolution in handling cut flowers'

    "The Bercomex grading and bunching machine signifies a revolution in the handling of cut flowers. We have worked on this innovation for ten years with our partners, invested millions in it and have succeeded in developing a machine that singles flowers from the greenhouse fully automatically, sorts them in accordance with the required specification and gathers them together again.

    Sleeving, fully automatic taping and the addition of a sachet of Chrysal flower food can also be integrated into the system," states Roland Kroese, the managing director of Bercomex (stand 01.0424). The bunching machine has a modular construction for practically every variety of cut flower, handles 4 stems per second in practice and will be receiving its new name on the first day of the Horti Fair. "We supplied 10,000 systems worldwide in thirty years with its predecessor. The generic bunching machine is a huge leap forward with the integration of new technologies, digitalization and robotics. And it also maintains product quality and uniformity more effectively, besides realizing savings on labour costs,’’ says Kroese.

    lijntje

    Horti Fair Stage: an extra platform for you as well!

    The Horti Fair Stage in hall 6 of the Amsterdam RAI exhibition centre is the new events platform during the coming Horti Fair. For you too perhaps!

    Because time slots are still available in the stage diary for company presentations, special gatherings, workshops, demonstrations, product launches and receptions. The Horti Fair Stage will be the theatre for the official opening, prize ceremonies for the Horti Fair Innovation Award, the House of Quality (incl. the Interpolis Quality Cup), the Best Participant Award, the final round of Ranking the Grower, trend demonstrations with flowers and plants, TV recordings for KAS Tuinbouw and the first rounds of the Horti Business Game. No costs are involved if your presentation meets the requirements! So take advantage of this extra Horti Fair platform and send us a mail with your idea or proposal!

    lijntje

    Building and dismantling

    All participants have received written information about the dates and times for building and dismantling the Horti Fair 2010 and the phased delivery of the required materials. Please pass this information on to stand builders and subcontractors as well, so that all of us can help to ensure the organization of the trade exhibition proceeds without a hitch!

    Halls 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the Amsterdam RAI are open for the building and fitting out of stands at the following times:

    • Friday 8 October from 07.00 tot 22.00 hours
    • Saturday 9 October from 08.00 to 18.00 hours
    • Sunday 10 October from 08.00 to 18.00 hours
    • Monday 11 October from 07.00 to 17.00 hours

    Removal of goods and dismantling of stands for halls 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 can be commenced at 19.30 hours on Friday 15 October and continues until 24.00 hours on Saturday 16 October. Check the precise details for your entry in the personal mailing sent by post.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    17 Sep 2010

    GIY (Grow it Yourself) Ireland 2010 Conference

    GIY (Grow it Yourself) Ireland 2010 Conference

    Under 24 hours to go now to the GIY 2010 Conference which takes place tomorrow (Saturday) at the

     Guinness Storehouse.  There will be some tickets available at the door or you can also book in advance atwww.giyireland.com/shop.  Tickets cost €40 and include a hot lunch, access to the Storehouse Tour (normally €15) and access to talks.  For details on how to get to the Storehouse go to http://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/GettingThere.aspx

    The theme of this year's conference is Together We Grow and the event is aimed at GIY local champions, and anyone who is interested in finding out more about GIY.  

    The GIY 2010 Conference is proudly supported by Woodies DIY.

    GIY is thrilled to announce that the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese will open the event – her attendance is due to her interest in GIYing and in the spirit of community and volunteerism that GIY represents. It is also due recognition for the huge work that all GIY local champions have put in to getting their groups up and running.

    GIY Ireland has put together a stellar cast of speakers for the event, including:

    •       Diarmuid Gavin - Garden Designer, TV Presenter and GIY Patron

    •       Duncan Stewart - Environmentalist and presenter of Eco-Eye

    •       Michael Kelly - Founder of GIY and author of Tales from the Home Farm

    •       Klaus Laitenberger - Former Organic Centre Lecturer and author of Vegetables for the Irish Garden

    •       Paddy Gleeson - Horticulture Consultant, Woodies DIY

    •       Fionnuala Fallon - Irish Times Urban Farmer Columnist

    •       Victoria Mary Clarke - TV Presenter, journalist and Yoga instructor

    •       Nicky Kyle - Organic Gardening Expert, former director of IOFGA and the Organic Trust 

    •       Michael Fox - Chairman of the South Dublin Allotments Association

    •       John Carney - Organic Gardening Expert

    •       Laurent Bertomier – Former head chef at the Palais de L'elyse (Presidential Palace) in Paris

    •       Pat Whelan - Farmer, butcher and author of An Irish Butcher Shop

    The conference agenda also includes:

    ·       World Cafe POD sessions where you can meet fellow GIYers from around Ireland

    ·       Presentation of the GIYer and GIY Group of the Year awards

    ·       Launch of the “Friend of GIY” Loyalty Card programme

    ·       Launch of GIY Bulk Seed Order programme

    ·       Tour of the Guinness Storehouse - find out about Guinness history and the brewing process

    ·       Free pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar 

      Tickets

      Tickets are priced at €40 and include refreshments, a hot buffet lunch, and a tour of the Guinness Storehouse (the tour normally costs €15 per person). 

      Venue: The Guinness Storehouse

      The Guinness Storehouse is Ireland's Number One international visitor attraction and is about ten minutes walk from Houston Station. The STOREHOUSE® was originally built in 1904 to house the Guinness fermentation process. This incredible building was constructed in the style of the Chicago school of architecture, with massive steel beams providing the support for the structure of the building. The STOREHOUSE® building housed the fermentation of Guinness beer until 1988, and opened its doors as a tourist attraction in November 2000.

      About GIY Ireland

      GIY is a registered charity (CHY 18920) which aims to inspire people to grow their own food and give them the skills they need to do so successfully.  We do this by getting GIYers together online and in community groups around Ireland so that they can learn from each other and exchange tips, ideas and produce. GIY meetings and membership are free and open to people interested in food growing at all levels, i.e. from growing a few herbs on the balcony to complete self-sufficiency, from beginners to old hands.

      There are over 70 GIY groups in communities around Ireland and approximately 5,000 people involved between our community groups and online social network at www.giyireland.com.  GIY Ireland was founded in 2009 by author and journalist Michael Kelly.  Sponsors include the Arthur Guinness Fund, Woodies DIY, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, Bord Bia and the AIB.  Patrons of GIY Ireland include Diarmuid Gavin, Darina Allen, Clodagh McKenna and Joy Larkcom. 

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    17 Sep 2010

    Spencer ECA opens new office in Ireland

    Spencer ECA opens new office in Ireland

    South-Wales based supplier of construction industry support, ground-works and landscape services, Spencer Environmental Care Associates, is pleased to announce the recent opening of its new office in Ireland.

    Aiming to attract new markets and expand its activity beyond the UK, specifically for its revolutionary SpiderPlow ‘trenchless’ pipe and cable installation system, Spencer ECA sees this extension to its operation as a significant step in its business development.

    Currently, Spencer is the only company in the UK and Ireland to own and operate a SpiderPlow, which is regarded as the most efficient, environmentally friendly and effective way of installing pipes and cables below ground. Because the SpiderPlow cuts, installs and back-fills - all in one operation, its use is particularly significant when working in ecologically and environmentally sensitive areas.

    Added to this, its efficient and low-impact method means that it offers a significant reduction in time, money and risk. It also operates very effectively on soft ground and marshland, has the ability to work on almost any terrain and can manoeuvre around most obstacles, as well as span ditches and even shallow rivers.

    In view of the benefits SpiderPlow has to offer, Spencer has been increasingly called upon to install cables for wind-energy projects, the system proving ideal for both on-shore sites and, more recently, the laying of export cables through the transition zone, in the case of off-shore installations.

    The SpiderPlow is equally as effective when installing pipes of up to 12” in diameter, which are regularly used in the installation of water and sewage rejuvenation schemes.

    “The opening of our new office in Ireland allows us the opportunity to offer our services to a new range of clients and contractors”, said Business Development Manager for Spencer ECA Charlie Jukes. “We are aware of a number of projects currently being considered in Ireland for which the SpiderPlow would prove to be ideal and therefore our new office allows us to respond to customers more quickly and effectively.”

    Spencer’s Ireland office is based in Trim, County Meath and is headed up by Con Farren - confarren@spencereca.com.

    Further information can be found at www.spiderplough.ie

    Spencer ECA
    Based in Llandysul , South Wales, Spencer ECA provides a wide range of support and environmental services for the construction and civil engineering industries. These include all aspects of land management, ground maintenance and site clearance. Spencer also specialises in the management and control of trees, vegetation and invasive plants, in particular Japanese Knotweed and the production of Biomass. Spencer is the only operator of the SpiderPlow ‘trenchless’ cable and pipe installation system in the UK and Ireland.

    Certified to ISO 14001: 2004 and ISO 9001: 2008, the company follows a stringent yet realistic environmental and ecological policy.

    Photo
    Spencer’s SpiderPlow installing an export cable for major new wind-energy project.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    16 Sep 2010

    PECKISH SET TO RUFFLE FEATHERS IN WILD BIRD CATEGORY at Glee-Petindex 2010

    PECKISH SET TO RUFFLE FEATHERS IN WILD BIRD CATEGORY

     

     
    Westland Horticulture is preparing to launch their first foray into the wild bird care category with their new and innovative brand Peckish.

     

    Available throughout retailers across the country from next month, Peckish is one of the most exciting brands to launch at this years’ GLEE.
     
    Swooping into stores this September it will be the perfect answer to every bird’s feeding requirements.

    Providing ‘What Birds Want’, Peckish will be delivering high quality feed and feeders, giving birds the perfect solution to their all round health with its special ingredients. 

    Unique to Peckish and setting it apart from others is the nutritious Calvita supplement combining calcium and specific vitamins to ensure that wild birds receive the best quality food.

    The Peckish brand contains a comprehensive range of bird feed including general feed to species specific, there is something for every bird.
     
    The products have evolved from extensive research into consumer wants resulting in packaging which is informative, friendly and attractive, appealing to bird feeders throughout the generations.

     

    Jen Richardson, Product Manager for Peckish said, “Peckish really does provide the perfect product for all wild birds and we are extremely excited about launching it into the bird care category.
     
    It is a simple, engaging and energetic brand which we aim to become the consumer’s number one choice in bird care.”

     

    Peckish will be launched at GLEE in September at the NEC in Birmingham, and will be available for buy in selected retailers from the end of August.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    16 Sep 2010

    Glee Wonderwall Pics

    Glee wonderwall pics

    Glee Wonderwall

    The Glee Wonderwall is the new community lead feature for www.gleebirmingham.com. Hosted 365 days a year there is no better place to see great merchandising ideas from around the UK and overseas.

    Get involved

    We know that many of you retailers are doing some great things back in store. So why not share your ideas with your peers. Simply take a photo of your great merchandising displays and send them to us at glee@emap.com. We will then upload your image to the Glee Wonderwall with a full accreditation to you and the product you are displaying.  

     

     Barton Grange  Barton Grange 2 Barton Grange 3
    Barton GrangeBarton Grange 2Barton Grange 3
     Garsons Esher S  Garsons Esher 2 S Garson Esher 3 S
    Garsons Esher Garsons Esher 2Garsons Esher 3
        
    PolhillPolhill 2Polhill 3
        
    ShootsShoots 2Shoots 3
       
    Bybrook BarnGarsons Titchfield Poplars
       
    Ruxley Manor Shoots Washington 2Thompsons Canterbury
       
    an Hage PeterboroughStewarts Country GardensStewarts Garden Lands
       
    Squires badshot leaParadise Park Millbrook Gravesend
       
    Millbrook Gravesend 2 Millbrook CrowboroughMillbrook Crowborough 2
        
     Coolings 

     
    16 Sep 2010

    Irish Companies Exhibiting at Glee 2010

    There are a number of progressive companies in the horticulture & Lifestyle sectors who are flying the flag for Ireland in export markets. All are participating at Glee 2010 which expects a large number of visitor's from Ireland who will be looking for new business opportunities. 

    •   Kilfera Pet Products.
  •   Phytoforce Veterinary Herbal Tonics.
  •   McMonagle Stone.
  •   Atacama International.
  •   Celtic Moss.
  •     Porters Christmas Trees.
  •     Westland Unwins.
  • To find out more about these companies and Glee 2010 go to the following link: http://www.gleebirmingham.com/page.cfm/link=323

    GLEE 2010

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    15 Sep 2010

    Container Centralen (CC) Extended Campaign Period – New Launch Date

    Extended Campaign Period – New Launch Date

    Container Centralen - Improving Supply Chains

    As the implementation date for the introduction of RFID has been drawing near, concerns and uncertainties about how RFID will change our industry and working procedures have been expressed by many CC Container users. 


    Container Centralen (CC), who manages the CC Container pool, takes the market’s opinions, concerns and assessments very seriously. The RFID partners in this project – FloraHolland, Landgard, VGB, GASA Group and CC – have therefore decided to defer the implementation date to Monday, January 10, 2011.

    To find out more how RFID can benefit your business click here 


    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    10 Sep 2010

    Don't Miss Out on Ireland's Horticulture & Lifestyle Trade Event of the Year!

    Garden Centre Association of Ireland (GCAI) - Autumn Seminar. 14th September 2010.

    Don't Miss Out on Ireland's Horticulture Trade event of the Year!

    If you are an owner, worker or student in the garden centre, landscaping, florist, nurseries/grower's sectors of horticulture or you are a service provider or supplier then this event is for you.

    Still not convinced?
    You don't have the time? It's not relevant? You don't need to meet any of the following?
    • Buyers for independant garden centres. 
    • Buyers for garden centre groups and hardware groups.
    • Industry support bodies such as Bord Bia or Teagasc.
    • Growers/Nurseries & other service providers.
    • Landscapers.
    • Industry correspondents & bloggers.
    • Educator's.
    • Decision makers and influencers in all of the above groups.

    If that is not enough, there will also be a professional line up of speakers from the UK and Ireland on topical issues that are effecting our sector. They will offer advice and direction on the day that will help your business to thrive now and into the future.

    Click here to see the 
    full 
    conference line-up: 
    Garden Centre Association Seminar Line-Up

    If you want to take part in this 'Must Attend' event then book now by contacting

     
    www.HortiTrends.com Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    9 Sep 2010

    5 days to Garden Centre Association Ireland Autumn Seminar - Book Now!

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    5 days to GCAI Autumn Seminar

     

    The GCAI is proud to welcome Andrew Maxted, Director of Marketing at The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) 
    UK
     as one of the speakers at the GCAI’s Autumn Seminar on Tuesday, 14th September next.

     

    As the HTA’s Director of Marketing Andrew leads the association’s marketing and communications activities. Andrew has recently relaunched the HTA’s Garden Industry Monitor (GIM) market information service. He places a strong emphasis on forward looking research and is also responsible for the National Garden Gift Voucher programme and other promotional initiatives such as the HTA/EU co-funded PlantforLife campaign. Andrew has been with the HTA since 2004 having previously gained substantial experience of management and marketing within membership organisations including ten years at the 
    Cumbria
     and English Tourist Boards. Andrew was elected a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing in 2007.

     

    Andrew will guide seminar delegates through the findings of some of the HTAs most recent consumer trends research.

     

    Also speaking on the 14th;

    Eimert de Graaff, Director QV Web Services – online services for business

    Martin O Donnell, Director, O’Donnell Property Consultants - commercial rates

    Phil Squance, MD, Container Centralen 
    UK
     - changes to trolley system

    James Lawless, owner, Kudos Consulting - social media for business

     

    To reserve a seat or to find out more please contact Anne at the GCAI

    Email anne@gio.ie or phone 087 2888 250

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    8 Sep 2010

    Landscape Maintenance Contract for IDA Business & Technology Park, Drogheda, Co Meath

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Title:

    Landscape Maintenance Contract for IDA Business & Technology Park, Drogheda, Co Meath ((tag: tenders, landscape contracts, horticulture, plants, Ireland))

    Landscape Maintenance Contract for IDA Business & Technology Park, Drogheda, Co Meath

    Published by:IDA IrelandPublication Date:07/09/2010Application Deadline:20/09/2010Notice Deadline Date:28/09/2010Notice Deadline Time:16:00Notice Type:Invitation to TenderHas Documents:YesAbstract:Landscaping and Ground Maintenance Contract at IDA BTP, Donore Road, Drogheda, Co. Meath. Three Year Contract subject to six-monthly Reviews. Entire Entrance Areas, Roads, Verges, Hedges, Planted Areas and all Open Space to be included. See additional Specification Document and maps.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    8 Sep 2010

    Saltex 2010: IT’S A SELL-OUT FOR FIRST-TIME IOG SALTEX EXHIBITOR!

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    IT’S A SELL-OUT FOR FIRST-TIME IOG SALTEX EXHIBITOR!

    “IOG SALTEX was definitely the best show ever for us,” says Dawn Bone, Operations Director, “and we have re-booked for this year as the exhibition is now our favourite trade show.”
    Supplied with an integrated spout and dust safety cap, the anti-spill pushbutton control can empties 5 litres in 15 seconds (350 ml per second) with no spillage and a reduction of emissions of up to 90%.
    The UK manufactured Flo Control Fuel Can has a 5-litre capacity and can be supplied with three different coloured identity discs (green, red and black) that can be used, for example, for unleaded, 2 stroke or diesel fuel.
    -

     

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    '

    8 Sep 2010

    Saltex 2010: The Future of Public Sector Landscaping

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    The Future of Public Sector Landscaping
    Leading players from the world of regeneration and public sector landscaping projects will take part in a Horticulture Week hosted panel discussion at this September’s IOG Saltex exhibition.
    The panel line-up will include regeneration expert Dr Tim Williams, landscape architect and Landscape Institute policy committee head Noel Farrer and chief executive officer of contractor English Landscapes Nick Temple-Heald.
    The debate has been specially convened to examine the impact of both the public sector spending squeeze and the government’s changes to regeneration and planning policy on the future of public sector landscaping projects.
    Dr Tim Williams is managing director of Navigant Consulting's public services practice He has previously been an advisor to David Miliband at OPDM and is currently advising the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).
    Noel Farrer is a founding partner of Farrer Huxley Associates and has developed an extensive portfolio of clients in housing, masterplanning, urban open space, play and eduation. In 2006 he was appointed as a consultant on the CABE Space strategic enabling panel.
    Before becoming chief executive officer of English Landscapes, Nick Temple-Heald was managing director of Glendale.
    Kate Lowe, editor of Horticulture Week, will chair the discussion.
    The debate will take place at 12.30pm on Wednesday 8th September at IOG Saltex in Seminar Room 5 in the Grandstand.

     

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    7 Sep 2010

    GIY 2010 Conference to Attract Food Growers

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    GIY 2010 Conference to attract food growers

    07.09.2010

    2010 Grow It Yourself Conference will take place on 18 September at Guinness Storehouse and this year’s theme is ‘Together We Grow'.

    President Mary McAleese will open the event, which is aimed at GIY local champions and anyone who is interested in finding out more about GIY or starting a group in their community. Her attendance is due to her interest in GIYing and the spirit of community and volunteerism that GIY represents.

    GIY [Grow It Yourself], which was a recipient of an inaugural Arthur Guinness Fund award early this year, is a registered charity that aims to inspire people to grow their own food and give them the skills they need to do so successfully.  

    People can exchange information online as well as meeting as part of community groups throughout the country. There are over 70 GIY groups in communities around Ireland and circa 5,000 people involved between its community groups and 

    Other speakers on the day will include Diarmuid Gavin, garden designer, TV presenter and GIY patron; Duncan Stewart, environmentalist and presenter of Eco-Eye; Michael Kelly, founder of GIY and author of Tales from the Home Farm;Klaus Laitenberger, author ofVegetables for the Irish Garden; Paddy Gleeson, chief horticulturalist, Woodies DIY; and Fionnuala Fallon, Irish Times ‘Urban Farmer’ columnist.

    In the afternoon, delegates will be able to chose from a series of talks/demos on topics including growing under cover, community assisted agriculture, yoga for GIYers, sausage-making, tools for GIYers and the OPW Walled Garden at the Phoenix Park.

    The conference agenda includes World Cafe POD sessions where people can meet fellow GIYers from around Ireland, the presentation of the GIYer and GIY Group of the Year awards, the launch of the “Friend of GIY” Loyalty Card programme and a tour of the Guinness Storehouse.

    Tickets are priced at €40 and include refreshments and a hot buffet lunch. 

     

    About GIY

    GIY Ireland was founded in 2009 by author and journalist Michael Kelly. Sponsors include the Arthur Guinness Fund, Woodies DIY, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland, Bord Bia and the AIB Better Ireland Programme.  Patrons of GIY Ireland include Diarmuid Gavin, Darina Allen, Clodagh McKenna and Joy Larkcom.  

    Photo: Diarmuid Gavin was at Festina Lente Gardens in Bray with Anna and Luke Weldon from Kilmacanogue to announce details of the GIY Ireland 2010 Conference, which will take place on Saturday 18 September in the Guinness Storehouse. Photo: Johnny Bambury

     

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    7 Sep 2010

    New RHS Qualifications go Live

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    New RHS qualifications go live

    7 September 2010



    Anyone with an interest in plants and gardening, can now study for a new range of qualifications from the RHS.

    These new qualifications are open to anyone from a beginner wanting to gain the basic skills, a keen gardener wishing to acquire additional knowledge, or even at a professional level to enhance a career.

    They have been designed for part-time study, and may be offered as part-time day courses or in the evening by approved colleges and other centres throughout the UK and Ireland. It is also possible to study theory courses by distance learning.

    The qualifications cover a wide range of horticultural topics including theory-based certificates at Level 2 in Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance and also the Principles of Plant Growth, Propagation and Development.

    For those wishing to acquire horticultural skills, the RHS has introduced a series of practical skills qualifications starting at Level 1. These focus on developing the essential skills required in the garden, be it for growing vegetables or establishing a border.

    There are no formal entry requirements for taking the RHS qualifications at Level 1 and 2 - all that is needed is an enthusiasm for plants and gardening and a desire to learn more.

     

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    1 Sep 2010

    Extra exposure on Horti Fair 2010 Stage

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Extra exposure on Horti Fair 2010 Stage.

    Are you an exhibitor who would like even more exposure at the Horti Fair? For the introduction of a new product for example, the signing of a contract, celebration of an anniversary or a special presentation? If so, the Horti Fair Stage is an interesting opportunity.

    This is the new events platform at the Horti Fair, in hall 6 of the Amsterdam RAI. The official opening, the prize ceremony for the Horti Fair Innovation Award, product demonstrations, receptions, announcement of the prize-winners from the House of Quality, the first rounds of the Horti Business Game and the final round of Ranking the Grower will all be held here. The Horti Fair Stage can also be used by participants for theme-based and new products presentations. Interested? Then just send an e-mail to Horti Fair and we will contact you to discuss your options!

    lijntje

    Successful trade press preview

    On 24 August eighteen participants in the Horti Fair held presentations for the international horticultural trade press of new products and services being introduced at the Horti Fair.

    This trade press and new products preview was attended by eighteen horticultural journalists representing more than twenty trade publications /websites (incl. video) from Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Great Britain, Belgium, France, Italy, Spain and international titles. This extra service offered by the Horti Fair not only results in publicity and goodwill for the participants, but also generates interest in the Horti Fair. The preview was held at the Demokwekerij Westland. Wim van der Loo, the managing director of the Horti Fair, presented the exhibition concept for the Horti Fair 2010 to the trade press and also revealed a little about the plans for 2011 and thereafter.

    lijntje

    Be part of the sustainability theme!

    Consciously or unconsciously, many products and services shown by participants at the Horti Fair make a contribution to sustainability. And that is why it is so easy to register them for 'Earning Sustainably', the exhibition theme in 2010.

    Your stand will then be included in the theme route, besides receiving an extra mention on the website, in the press file and in other Horti Fair publications. Registration is easy using your digital exhibitors manual. Some examples seen at the Horti Fair trade press preview are phalaenopsis and anthurium pot plants with longer shelf life, Fairtrade flower food, the low noise Euro Trolley that improves night-time distribution in the retail chain, watering precisely tailored to the plant and more economical and less harmful to the environment as a result, covering pots/containers to reduce the growth of moss and weeds so that less crop protection agents are needed, vertical crop protection, biological crop protection agents, energy saving through LED lighting.... there are just too many to mention!

    So be part of the theme: it costs nothing, apart from the effort of registering with the manual. Any questions, or assistance needed? Just mail the Horti Fair and we will be delighted to help. 

     

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    30 Aug 2010

    Carbon Footprint Calculator for Business

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Carbon Footprint Calculator

    Home / Carbon Footprint Calculator
    Carbon Footprint Calculator

    Carbon Footprint CalculatorThis calculator enables a company to estimate the carbon footprint of their business activities.

    There are 2 main input headings

    1. Fossil fuel used for site activities and electricity from grid or renewable sources
    2. Transport fuel for staff travel and/or materials/product distribution

    Report
    A carbon dioxide equivalent figure in tonnes will be estimated from the inputted figures. The total carbon dioxide equivalent figures will give an estimate of your carbon footprint. If you wish you can input figures into any section of the calculator and obtain a CO2 figure for that particular parameter. You can also produce a full report by completing all the relevant sections and request a report for printing at the end.

    Question 1 - Fuel Consumption
    Question 2 - Electricity Used
    Question 3a - Product/Materials Transport
    Question 3b - Staff Business travel

    Click on the link below to go to site:

    http://www.envirocentre.ie/CC.aspx?ID=25596e0e-b89f-4c2e-bf2b-512323db98ac&PID=a257bece-c1e7-464a-9cd0-fde10d3a18c3

    NOTE: Calculations are based on SEI and DEFRA figures. Some co-efficients used in this calculator are approximate. They are designed to give an estimate of a business carbon footprint. An in depth analysis is required in order to measure a more precise footprint.

    If you require information please contact:
    Declan White, Environment & Green Technologies Dept., Enterprise Ireland.
    Phone: 01 727 2480
    Click here to email Declan White

     

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    30 Aug 2010

    Preview looks successfully ahead to Horti Fair 2010

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland 

    Hortifairliggend
     

    International Horti Fair 2010

     

    Preview looks successfully ahead to Horti Fair 2010

     

    Aalsmeer, 30 august 2010 - New products and services, doing concrete business and exchanging professional knowledge: that is what the coming Horti Fair is all about,’’ concluded international journalists during the trade press and new products preview for the Horti Fair 2010. Twenty participants presented a selection of their new products to give the representatives of the horticultural media an early look ahead to the international horticultural exhibition being held in Amsterdam from 12 to 15 October inclusive. Wim van der Loo, the managing director of the Horti Fair described the highlights of the coming show, like the Horti Fair Stage. 

     

    Journalists working for trade publications in the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Finland, Austria, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium and Great Britain, as well as for international titles - 23 of them in total - came along to the preview on 24 August. Demokwekerij Westland, the leading innovation centre in greenhouse horticulture, was the appropriate location for the preview, where one of the premieres was the introduction of the www.technicaltrials.nl website. Technical Trials (stand no. 04.0417) is one of the new pavilions at the Horti Fair and is based on an alliance of leading technical producers. The Central Station run by the participants is the pick-up point at the Horti Fair, where visitors to the show receive information from and about the 17 participating companies that can be visited during the Horti Fair. The Horti Fair Stage in hall 6 of the Amsterdam RAI exhibition complex is the new events platform.


    Horti Fair Noviteitenpreview 2010.jpg




     






    Photo: The Horti Fair trade press preview attracted a large delegation of international horticultural journalists.


    Innovation programme

    The preview, which the Horti Fair organizes every year specially for the trade press, is part of the innovation programme of the exhibition. Managing director Wim van der Loo emphasized that the Horti Fair ,,is organized from, for and by horticulture. This enables us as a trade show to focus a lot of attention on innovation, quality improvement and the stimulation of the exchange of knowledge. Through the eight special exhibition pavilions, the twenty Breakfast Briefings under the auspices of Syntens, and the exhibition theme of 'Earning sustainably'. One of the other highlights again is the presentation of the Innovation Award’’. This prestigious award (in partnership with Reed Business) is separate from the preview, incidentally, because all new products at the fair that have been registered in time are eligible to compete for the Award.

     

    New

    Frans van Zaal Totaal Techniek in De Kwakel (stand no. 01.0118) is introducing a Submersion System at the Horti Fair 2010.This is a new way of supplying water, in which the pots hang in containers that are submerged from below. The system is integrated into the mobile internal transport system. Crea-Tech from Ter Aar has developed a delivery system in which a robot sorts, bunches and places flowers in an auction container at a work station. The products arrive in the rack according to colour, variety and date.

    WPS Hortisystems in De Lier (stand no. 04.0417) is introducing Kit Internal Transport: container systems and conveyer belts in the form of assembly kits that enable growers to take their first steps towards automation less expensively by doing the installation themselves. Plant Handling Robots is a series of robotics for pot plants and other products.

    Philips Lighting B.V. in Eindhoven (stand no. 04.0502) has developed the Greenpower LED interlighting module DR/B, a lighting system placed between plant rows to provide the crop with light and heat, resulting in savings on energy and increased production. The Master Greenpower Plus 1000W EL has been improved and gives 4% more growth light throughout its lifetime as a result.

    In addition to various biological pest control agents like Macro-MiteCitripar, Natufly, Capsanem and Aphipar-m, Koppert Biological Systems from Berkel and Rodenrijs (stand no. 04.0314) is also introducing the Distribug, a blower which the roller tables with pot plants move under and Rollerfix, which simplifies hanging up sticky ribbons (Rollertraps) in crops.

     

    More possibilities

    Vertical crop protection in the right dosage and at the right place, with biological agents such as Enzicur from Koppert and UV-C from Clean Light, and chemical crop protection: this can be done with the Klimrek Rail from Klimrek Producten BV in Pijnacker (stand no. 04.0128). The possibilities also include a longer raising period and (emergency) greenhouse roof repairs. Another new product is the corrosion-free heating system, the Klimrek Heat Buffer, which requires no expansion provision.

    Hoogendoorn Growth Management from Vlaardingen (stand no. 04.0220) is showing three new products in the AVAG Market.Hoogendoorn Webinars make it possible for a number of people to follow training courses and demonstrations at the same time, online and interactively. iSii+Aquabalance is a set of scales for weighing substrate, which helps to adjust irrigation with precision to the needs of the plants. Also new is that the  iSii+Remote Server Edition remote control from Hoogendoorn has now been made suitable for companies that use a server network with Thin Clients, WiFi or smartphones.  

    The HortiMax CropView from HortiMax in Pijnacker (stand no. 01.0517) makes it possible to monitor crop development in detail and make any necessary changes 24 hours a day, by means of a Nikon photographic system integrated into the climate computer. This can be done via the computer, in the greenhouse, but remotely as well. The zoom lens means that everything can be monitored in high resolution down to the most minor details. The first contracts will be concluded at the Horti Fair.

     

    Attention grabber

    The new HortiTop, developed in partnership with Slingerland Potgrond, is an attention grabber on the stand of Horticoop from Bleiswijk (stand no. 02.0102). It comprises Herbaedeck, a specially selected quality bark, HerbaedeckHechter, a biological gel that fixes the bark onto the pot and remains effective for 12 months, and a gel machine to apply the gel. This means labour savings, improved quality and better presentation.

    Container Centralen Nederland from Hoofddorp (stand no. 03.0119) is presenting the new CC Euro Trolley for visitors to the Horti Fair. The trolley has been specially developed for retail outlets and is low noise due to its soft rubber suspension damping and the use of plastic shelves, for which old crates are reused. Two trays with pot plants fit onto the shelves of the roller containers and the deck also has two RFID tags for the purposes of registration and traceability.

    Chrysal International BV in Naarden (stand no. 01.0441) is introducing a number of new products at the trade show in Amsterdam, including the world premiere of the Fairtrade Liquid Flower Food (with Max Havelaar certification mark) for roses and mixed bouquets. It is only permitted to attach the flower food to Fairtrade flowers. Also new are Chrysal Food Drops, a pack containing six portions that are sufficient to provide one year of care for orchids and green plants, and the improvedChrysal Clear Universal Powder Sachets that will give flowers and bouquets a vase life of more than seven days.

     

    Introduction of partnership

    BVB Substrates from De Lier (stand no. 02.0110) is announcing a partnership with Royal Philips Electronics for the purposes of research into the best combination of LED lighting and substrates. One new product is BVB Allure, a bark-free substrate for orchids using Gambit, which is a cork mixture with high structure stability. There are five different types. BVB Sublime for growing tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers is made of polyurethane using a new technology that has been developed in alliance with growers and can result in between 5 and 7% higher yield.

    AVO Anthurium Vogels in Wateringen (stand no. 01.0446) is introducing Anthurium Andreanum AVO® Rosalie for pot cultivation; pot size 15-21 cm, and bears large red flowers (7-10 cm) with a green edge. AVO® Pink Christina is a new cut flower cultivar in a lasting dusty pink colour with a long plant life cycle for the consumer and high production for the grower. The company will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of its formation during the Horti Fair and will also be presenting its new house style.

    Anthura B.V. from Bleiswijk (stand no. 01.0330) is introducing its Phalaenopsis (for pot cultivation) Anthura Luzern at the Horti Fair; new in Anthurium cut flower cultivation is the Bellanca®, as well as the Fire XL® and Zafira®Matiz® and Piccolo® are being introduced in Anthurium pot cultivation. Also new is the concept of a ready-made solo Anthurium bouquet in a vase, which is being presented for the retail trade at the Horti Fair.

    There proved to be great interest on the part of the journalists during the preview for the Horti Fair Career Plaza (stand no. 03.0302), the House of Technology & Innovation (stand no. 04.0226), House of Quality (stand nos. 01.0126, 01.0228, 05.0102 and 05.0202), House of Software (stand no. 01.0428), the Breeders' Market (stand no. 01.0440) and the Horti Business Game (stand no. 01.0121), as well as in the exhibition theme of 'Earning Sustainably'.

     

    Extensive service for trade visitors

    All new products at the Horti Fair can be identified by the special Horti Fair New logo on the stands, on the official exhibition floorplans and the new products route, as well as being shown in advance on the new website at www.hortifair.com.

    An additional feature of the website at www.hortifair.com this year is a search and find function at product level and there is also a HortiVisit e-mail newsletter every Wednesday, specially for trade visitors (www.hortifair.com/hortivisit). Shuttles bring visitors safely, swiftly and comfortably to the Horti Fair from horticultural areas (www.hortifair.com/route). Admission costs € 40.00 at the ticket office, but is free of charge for trade visitors, who receive tickets from participants or online (www.hortifair.com/tickets). In 2010 the International Horti Fair is being held in the Amsterdam RAI from 12 to 15 October inclusive and is open every day from 10.00 to 19.00 hours. Take a look at www.hortifair.com for an up-to-the-minute impression of the most intensively visited trade event for professional horticulture. 

     

     

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    30 Aug 2010

    BSc (Hons) in Entrepreneurship in Horticulture

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

     

    BSc (Hons) in Entrepreneurship in Horticulture 

    To learn more click here - http://www.itb.ie/StudyatITB/bn419.html

     or email: 


    Overview.

    Semester 1 Modules 

    New Venture Development 1: Students are required to commence this module by shaping an idea for a product or for a provision of a service into a genuine opportunity and form teams that will see the idea through to completion. Students must identify new opportunities, critically evaluate existing or alternative products or services in the marketplace, carry‐out preliminary design including proof‐of‐concept and formulate a plan for completion. At the end of the module, students will be required to defend and promote their concept to a panel in the LINC. 

    Horticulture Project 1, Analysis & Design: In this module, students will undertake an individual horticulture project to support the new venture development  efforts  that  includes:  technical  review,  research,  problem  formulation  and  opportunity  identification,  scientific,  regulatory  and environmental  standards,  ethical  implications  and  solution  design.  Project  management,  including  planning,  control  and  documentation,  is critical  to  bringing  together  the  students  knowledge  and  skills  from  the  wider  course.  As  the  project  is  a  year‐long  effort,  this  module represents the initial stages of the overall project that student must complete and contributes to the new venture development efforts. 

    Creativity, Innovation & Teamwork: This module provides students with an understanding of the role of creativity, innovation and teamwork in the entrepreneurial process and its ongoing role in enterprise. As well as practical exercises in creative problem solving, students will consider idea  generation  techniques,  opportunities  for  value  creation,  business  failure  and  networking.  Students  will  complete  a  number  of  team assignments in unfamiliar environments, underscoring the importance of teaming and leadership in the entrepreneurial process. 

    Enterprise & Operations: This module will provide students with the skills necessary to develop a business from idea formation through the various  stages  of  the  business  life‐cycle.  Students  will  consider  enterprise  start‐up,  enterprise  supports,  new  venture  management  teams, research for operations setup, strategy development, quality management, supply chain, growth and sustainability. 

    Sales  &  Marketing:  This  module  provide  students  with  an  in‐depth  understanding  and  appreciation  of  sales  and  marketing  theory  and  the practice necessary for business development as well as an ability to apply these concepts to the development of a marketing plan. 

    Elective  Module:  From:  Horticultural  Business  Management  ;  Human  Resources  Management,  Landscape  Design  2,  Golf  Course  Design  7 Management, advanced Plant Pathology, Plant Treatment Regulation, Advanced Soli Science and Chemistry, Diffusion of Innovation, Universal Design for Amenities, Genetics and plant Breeding, Environmental Indicators, Synthetic sport surfaces, Historical Parks & Gardens, Horticulture Therapy.


    Semester 2 Modules 

    New Venture Development 2: This module is a ‘follow‐on’ from New venture Development 1. Student teams are required to gain considerable traction and progress their ideas further towards commercial reality. As part of this module, the students must complete detailed design and analysis,  develop  prototypes  or  simulations  as  a  product  or  service  demonstrator.  In  parallel,  students  must  complete  a  business‐plan  and support documentation to appropriate proofing points that would allow it to attract the necessary resources to make it happen. 

    Horticulture Project 2, Implementation: This module is a ‘follow‐on’ from Project 1. Project execution, solution implementation and application of the research hold greater emphasis in this part of the project. Demonstrating the bringing together of knowledge and skills from the wider course  is  achieved  through  a  major  written  submission  as  a  thesis,  a  presentation  of  the  project  to  an  expert  panel  and  a  practical demonstration of the creative solutions implemented.  As the project is a year‐long effort, this module represents the final stages of the overall project and contributes to the new venture development efforts. 

    Aboriculture 2: This module enhances the student’s depth of understanding of the science of arboriculture. The student will integrate their knowledge of the plant physiology of trees with the ability to manage Ireland’s reserves of forest, woodland and urban trees. Student will learn to make decisions and work with stakeholders on the survival or otherwise of areas of the national tree stock drawing on elements of their scientific and technical expertise. 

    New Venture Finance: This module requires the student to explain the relationship between and interpret the balance sheet, profit and loss account and cash‐flow. Understand the key the techniques in managing working capital, know the appropriate sources of funding for a given investment proposal, prepare a basic set of financial projections for inclusion in a business plan, understand the linkages between marketing and production decisions and financial performance of the enterprise. 

    Legal, IP & Commercialisation: This module provides students with an in‐depth understanding and appreciation of the Irish legal system, the legal  responsibilities  and  opportunities  for  those  in  business  and  how  the  law  facilitates  entrepreneurship.  The  module  also  explores  the creation, capture and exploitation of intellectual property as well as contract law, tort, business forms and the sources of law. 

    Elective  Module:  From:  Horticultural  Business  Management  ;  Human  Resources,  Landscape  Design  2,  Golf  Course Design  7  Management, advanced  Plant  Pathology,  Plant  Treatment  Regulation,  Advanced  Soli  Science  and  Chemistry,  Diffusion  of  Innovation,  Universal  Design  for Amenities, Genetics and plant Breeding, Environmental Indicators, Synthetic Sport Surfaces, Historical Parks & Gardens, Horticulture Therapy.

    To learn more click here - http://www.itb.ie/StudyatITB/bn419.html

     or email: 

    www.HortiTrends.com Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland

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    '

    26 Aug 2010

    Green infrastructure central to planning process - Comhar SDC

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Development of green infrastructure should be a core part of Ireland’s planning policy, including local development plans and the national spatial strategy. That is according to Comhar Sustainable Development Council, which launched its latest research report today.

    We need to move to a system where the protection and enhancement of our green infrastructure is integrated into the planning process, according to Comhar SDC who today launched Creating Green Infrastructure for Ireland. This would require mapping of natural ecosystems to provide evidence of the value of biodiversity and ecosystems to the economy and society, it said.  

    "Development has been a major driver of habitat degradation and biodiversity loss in Ireland," said the report's editor, Dr. Cathy Maguire, Director of Research at Comhar SDC. "Biodiversity continues to decline because its value is not reflected in decision-making by business and government.  While tools such as 'Strategic Environment Assessment' and 'Environmental Impact Assessment' have become part of our development process, they are essentially reactive measures. 

    “The introduction of a green infrastructure approach to planning policy would help to protect, create and manage green infrastructure in an integrated and proactive way.  It would also enhance Ireland's biodiversity and improve resilience to climate change."

    Comhar SDC describes 'green infrastructure' as "a network of green spaces that help conserve natural ecosystems and provide benefits to human populations through water purification, flood control, carbon capture, food production and recreation.  Such spaces include woodlands, coastlines, flood plains, hedgerows, city parks and street trees."

    Comhar cites the National Parks and Wildlife Services estimates that natural ecosystems contribute at least €2.6 billion to Ireland's economy each year, across a range of sectors, including agriculture, health and aquaculture.


    Creating a better work-life environment

     Also speaking at today's launch, Professor Frank Convery, chairperson of Comhar SDC (pictured), said: "Green infrastructure that is operating at its peak and is well connected can makes cities, towns and rural areas better places in which to work.  High-quality green infrastructure translates into higher property values and rents, and is also attractive to the high-value industries, entrepreneurs and workers now needed to underpin the knowledge economy.

     "The health benefits of a green infrastructure are also numerous.  Well-planned green spaces can act as important places to exercise, particularly in an urban centre.  They also provide play areas for children and act as a recreational space for members of the local community.  This offers positive benefits in terms of a community's physical and mental health."


    Professor Convery said that the upcoming revision of the National Biodiversity Plan, as well as the National Adaptation Plan, offers an important opportunity to put green infrastructure on the agenda of all the agents involved in planning and infrastructure delivery.  "Apart from national and local buy-in from our elected representatives, we need all of the key sectors - from agriculture to tourism and planners - to work together to realise the economic and social benefits of protecting our biodiversity," he added.

     

    Recommendations to Government


    The report contains a range of recommendations to government on how green infrastructure can be developed in Ireland.  These include the development of national guidance and objectives; the inclusion of green infrastructure in policy and legislation; green infrastructure maps, and measures to improve data availability and harmonisation. 

     "Comhar SDC has recommended a range of actions, including the development of national guidelines which set out how green infrastructure can be incorporated into the planning process," said Maguire. "We are urging policy makers to grasp the opportunities that green infrastructure approaches can offer in bringing benefits to the environment, economy and society.  Integrating green infrastructure into our planning process would result in health and economic benefits, as well as protecting our biodiversity.  It would offer a positive dimension to our planning process and minimise conflicts between environmental and economic goals."

     "Green infrastructure mapping underpins the whole approach and, while there are data gaps and needs, a lot of useful information already exists at national and local levels," she continued. "This should be made available in a coordinated and accessible way for use in green infrastructure mapping."
      
    Comhar Sustainable Development Council was established in 1999 as the forum for national consultation and dialogue on all issues relating to sustainable development. 

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    26 Aug 2010

    National Organic Awards 2010 to be Announced September 14th - www.HortiTrends.com

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    National Organic Awards 2010 to be Announced September 14th

    National Organic Awards 2010 
    Now in their 4th year, the National Organic Awards are recognised as 
    an important feature of the organic food and drink Industry. 
    Established by the National Organic Plan under the auspices of the 
    Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food and Bord Bia, judging for 
    the National Organic Awards will take place in early September.  All 
    entries will be judged by a panel of experts.

    Award Categories: 
    1. Best Organic Retail Product 
    2. Best Organic Local Product 
    3. Best Organic Export Product 
    4. Best Organic New Product 
    5. Best Organic Sustainable Product 
    6. Best Overall Organic Product

    Award winners will be announced and presented at a lunch on Tuesday 
    the 14th of September in the Bord Bia Food Centre.  Winners will be 
    invited and expected to attend.

    The objective of the awards is to recognise the achievements and raise 
    the profile of Irish organic food and drink manufacturers and growers.

    This year the awards have been reviewed and will be more inclusive of 
    organic producers from every sector, including horticulture growers. 

    The announcement of the awards will coincide with National Organic 
    Week and we hope to use the synergies to increase the profile of the 
    winners and the Irish organic food sector.

    Important Dates for the National Organic Awards 2010: 
    Monday 23rd August: Deadline for receipt of application forms 
    Tuesday 14th September: Award winners announced.

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com 

    Latest Company News, Trends, Courses, Products Services, Suppliers & Jobs in Horticulture & Fresh Produce, Nurseries, Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Landscape, Architecture, Garden Centre, Florists, Sports Turf, Green Keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    21 Aug 2010

    Disease found in Japanese Larch Trees in Ireland

    Latest H

    orticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Disease found in Japanese Larch Trees in Ireland

    The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is currently investigating a small number of cases of a disease affecting mainly Japanese larch trees in the Tipperary/Waterford region. The disease is caused by the pathogenPhytophthora ramorum, a fungus like organism that can damage and kill trees and plants it infects.

    Following findings of the pathogen in Japanese larch trees in Great Britain in autumn 2009, the Department, on a precautionary basis, initiated a special survey here of Japanese larch growing adjacent to areas where rhododendron infected with P. ramorum had already been detected. In addition to the findings in a small number of larch trees, beech trees which were growing in proximity to the infected larch trees were also found to be infected as were two noble fir trees.

    Japanese larch trees represent some 3% of the total forest tree population in Ireland. The bulk of the wood from infected trees can be used in the normal way provided the necessary hygiene measures are taken at felling and in sawmills.

    There has also been a finding in Northern Ireland and the Department is liaising closely with the NI Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

    The Department is taking all necessary measures to establish the extent of the infection and to control the spread of the disease.

     

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
     Latest News, Trends, Courses, Services, Products, Suppliers & Jobs for Horticulture & Fresh Produce - Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Nurseries, Landscape, Architecture,                                                                              Garden Centre, Florists, Arboriculture, Sports Turf, Green-keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    20 Aug 2010

    Horticulture, Landscape and Sportsturf Management at UCD

    Latest Horticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland

    Interested in Horticulture? You might think that it’s just about gardening, but you’d be wrong! How about Sportsturf and Landscape Management, Floriculture or Social Horticulture?

     

    Degree: BAgrSc (Horticulture, landscape and Sportsturf Management)

    Direct entry CAO Code: DN048 or 

    Omnibus entry CAO code: DN010             

    Length of Programme: 4 years.                                 

    Required Subjects: Irish, English, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject, two other recognised subjects. 

     

    Introduction

    Horticulture is the Art and Science of plant cultivation for human use. It is a topic that covers a vast and interesting range of subjects, including all of the sciences, plant protection (pests and diseases), environmental studies, business, management and communications, and of course growing plants. This degree offers a huge variety of career paths for those of you interested in working indoors or outdoors. 

    With this degree you can choose the area you would like to concentrate on, pure horticulture or the management of plants in the landscape or the sportsturf industry. 

    Sport and leisure has become very important in everyone’s lives. You could work and play at the same time with a career in the €750M sportsturf sector. By studying Sportsturf Managementyou could develop and maintain one of the 400 golf courses or thousands of tennis, football, rugby, bowling and other sports pitches in Ireland. 

    If you like helping other people and you have felt the joy of sowing seeds and nurturing plants as they grow, you can combine these and study Social Horticulture. This area of horticulture studies the interaction between humans and plants and how you can use this knowledge to improve the lives of people. 

    If food production is your interest or if you are concerned about globalisation and its impact on food supply, safety and quality then you can study Fresh Produce Production

    Or if you are interested in growing plants then you can studyNursery, Garden Centre and Ornamental Plant Production. With the continuing dramatic increase in house building, road construction and other projects, the demand for plants, both for indoors and outdoor landscapes has exploded. 

    If you are interested in an international career, using your French or Spanish language skills, then a career in Floriculture may be what you want? This sector produces and supplies flowers and pot plants valued at over €35M, which are sourced from all over the world, from countries such as Kenya, Israel, Bolivia, Columbia or South Africa. 

    Find out what current a student thinks of the programme by clicking here.

     

    Career Opportunities
    All the above areas need highly trained individuals in management, technical advisory and consultation roles, research, quality assurance, sales and marketing positions, either working for the emerging large corporate companies active in this area or within your own business.

     

    Programme Objectives
    This degree programme is designed to help you acquire:

    ·

             
    an appreciation of the importance of plants for human existence;

    ·

             
    knowledge of the growth, development and protection of plants and use of plants for food, leisure, sports, social and environmental benefits;

    ·

             
    an understanding of the Art and Science of plant cultivation for human use;

    ·

             
    an understanding of horticultural plant production systems and how their components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner;

    ·

             
    knowledge of the horticulture, landscape and sports turf industries in Ireland, the context in which they operate, and their relationship to such industries in Europe and worldwide.

     

    As well as providing you with the principles, knowledge and skills directly related to the degree, it is also designed to help you develop your transferable skills, such as:

    • the ability to think analytically, solve problems, and be creative; 
    • enhanced leadership skills and
    • a range of information technology and communication skills plus interpersonal and professional development skills which can be used in many areas of your future professional career and social life.

     

    Programme Content
    Year 1 is designed to ensure you have a good knowledge of the basic sciences. There is also an introduction to the horticulture programme. 

    Year 2 covers the applied sciences such as soil science and plant biology as well as modules in business and fundamentals of horticulture.

    Years 3 and 4 cover the core modules including nursery/garden centre management, Fruit growing, vegetable crops, plant materials, sportsturf management, landscape management and design. There is also a major project and elective course to choose.

    It is important that you study the programme syllabus before making your final choice.

     

     

    Professional Work Experience (PWE)
    This is an important element of your degree and gives you the opportunity to further develop your skills in a real life environment. Six months PWE is taken in your area of interest between the years 3 and 4 of your degree. There are opportunities to travel for your PWE or take a semester in another university through our exchange programme. 

     

    Transfers from Institutes of Technology
    The Programme normally accepts a number of transferees from Institutes of Technology who have completed relevant Ordinary Degree Programmes. Details are available from the Programme Office, contact details below.

     Further Information:

    Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine Programme Office

    Room G10 (ground floor),

    UCD Agriculture and Food Science Centre

    University College Dublin

    Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland

    Tel: +353 1 716 7194

    Fax: +353 1 716 1118

    Email: 

    a
    gandv
    et@ucd.ie

    Website: 

    www.ucd.ie/agandvetwww.HortiTrends.com Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland

    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
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    '

    19 Aug 2010

    Glee 2010 Visitor Newsletter

    Latest H

    orticulture & Fresh Produce News for Ireland
     
    Glee Visitor Newsletter


    Glee 2010 is fast approaching and it is set to be bigger, bolder and brighter than in 2009. With over 650 fantastic brands showcasing their products there is no better place to be from the 20th to 22nd September 2010.

    Glee is set to be a fantastic 3 days packed with BIG BRANDS,INNOVATION and RETAIL INSPIRATION. If you have not already done so, click here to save the dates in your diary.


    Glee 2010 will deliver fantastic content to all visitors to the show. The Hothouse will return ready to inform, educate and inspire you. Key topics include;

    Garden Centre of the Future


    John Stanley
    What will the industry look like in 2050 and how will we get there? This thought provoking presentation will stimulate ideas on the vision of the future, as well as providing practical steps we can introduce into our business tomorrow.


    GYO Inspiration

    Kevin Walters, Gardenworks
    Recent research by Future Foundation in the UK showed that 36% of consumers (41% of family stage) are either already growing or are planning to grow their own vegetables.


    This is a great opportunity. In this session, Kevin Waters from The Gardenworks will review some of the very best approaches to marketing grow your own from centres and suppliers across the country. Don't miss it!


    Retail masterclass at GLEE 2010

    On Wednesday September 22nd, at 10.00AM, there will be an exciting retail seminar based on the Colour your Life campaign.

    Facilitator Phil Rogers of Incito Learning & Development has 30 years experience in training, development and operations with retail with giants Asda & Ikea. The session is guaranteed to be interactive and dynamic and will give you applied ideas to take back to your own businesses. It will be enriched by Phil's unique, motivational approach.

    As part of the seminar, real-life gardening retailers will be sharing their experiences of using the materials and facilities on offer through Colour your Life.

    The first fifty to register for the seminar at contact@colour-your-life.co.uk will receive a free voucher to use the brilliant on-line poster service - come and collect it on the day!


    Are garden centres inspirational enough?

    Matt Appelby, Horticultural Week
    International garden centre consultant John Stanley says garden centres are losing out to farmers' markets as community hubs.


    Stanley, who will be part of a Garden Retail panel looking at whether garden centres are inspirational enough, says garden centres are losing their "edge" as an experience creator.

    He will join BBC Gardeners' World magazine editor Adam Pasco and HTA president Caroline Owen on this high profile panel to disscuss. Make sure you join the debate


    Glee is crammed full of fantastic content, leading brands and inspirational products. Make sure you don't miss it!

    We look forward to seeing you in September

    The Glee team


    If you have a story or event to promote please email: news@HortiTrends.com
     Latest News, Trends, Courses, Services, Products, Suppliers & Jobs for Horticulture & Fresh Produce - Fruit & Vegetable Growers, Nurseries, Landscape, Architecture,                                                                              Garden Centre, Florists, Arboriculture, Sports Turf, Green-keeping & Forestry Sectors.

    '

    18 Aug 2010

    GLDA events. Annual Seminar will be held on the 29th January 2011

    GLDA events. Annual seminar will be held on the 29th January 2011 at The National Botanic Gardens Dublin. Among the speakers is Tom Stuart Smith. 

    Stay tuned for further GLDA news and updates.

     

    '

    18 Aug 2010

    HortiFair News 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland


    space 0


    ExpoSure:

    ExpoSure is the digital newsletter from the Horti Fair for (potential) exhibitors.

    0 Register new products quickly!
    0

    Proven profitability of participating in Horti Fair

    0 High scores

    Click here to unsubscribe

     

    ihf2000

    where horticulture meets

     


    Register new products quickly!

    If you are introducing new products and/or services at the Horti Fair 2010, you should register them quickly using the Exhibitors Manual. All new products registered in time compete for the prestigious Horti Fair Innovation Award (in partnership with Reed Business) and are eligible, therefore, for the prize of € 5,000 in the form of a media package!

    The international jury of experts will announce the nominations at the beginning of September on the basis of the descriptions provided by the participants, which is why you should register quickly and no later than 20 August. Follow the tips in your Exhibitors Manual when describing your new products for a chance of winning the Innovation Award, which will be presented to the winner announced on the first day of the fair. The Innovation Award competition is separate from the trade press and new products preview: all products registered in time are eligible to take part.

    lijntje

    Proven profitability of participating in Horti Fair

    Did you know that the Horti Fair is the only horticultural trade show whose profitability is proven? Our figures make it clear that participating in last year's Horti Fair produced an average of 15 new customers! And the profit on each euro of the costs of taking part was no less than € 6.19 in 2009!

    lijntje

    High scores

    The Horti Fair has achieved high scores over the past six years. On average, 79% of participants were (very) satisfied with visitor quality, 66% were (very) satisfied with the visits to the stand and 78% (very) satisfied with the contact with the organizers. In addition, an evaluation of visits from 2006 to 2009 shows that no less than 92% of visitors found what they were looking for at the Horti Fair and 89% recommends the trade exhibition in Amsterdam to colleagues. The Horti Fair team is aiming to achieve an equally high score this year as well!

     

     

     

    International Horti Fair © 2010 | Twitter | Flickr.com | YouTube | Contact


    18 Aug 2010

    Looking for Work Expierience in Horticulture - Waterford/Kilkenny Area

    I am returning to college in September to study horticulture at Kildalton College, Co. Kilkenny. I have worked on orchards, vineyard and organic market gardens in Australia and New Zealand and decided to study horticulture when I returned home.  I am based on the Waterford/Kilkenny border and looking for weekend work experience that I can do throughout my course. Preferably I would like to work in a garden, nursery or garden centre.  

    If your business can supply work experience for this person or others please contact jblair@hortitrends.com

    '

    18 Aug 2010

    GLDA Show garden workshop with Mark Gregory and Orla Woods at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Saturday October 9th

    GLDA Show garden workshop with Mark Gregory and Orla Woods at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Saturday October 9th


    Event introduction 

    “It’s Show Time”

    The creation of a show garden is a right of passage for all garden designers. 

    For some they represent the tentative first steps into the commercial reality of design, for others they’re a stage to play out a lifetime’s experience. To the public they’re a magnet; a catwalk for exterior design where future trends are set, perceptions are tested and where lifestyle aspirations are brought to life. The show garden is a corner stone in every designer’s life and career.

    The creation of a show garden is no easy task, if it were, we all be making them. To realise a show garden will demand heavily of mind, body and soul, it will test patience, spirit and commitment to the limit, while draining finances and eating up time. For the dab hand they’re an immense challenge, for ill informed and inexperienced they often prove too much. 

    If you’re a designer - aspiring, experienced or otherwise - looking to raise your profile, share your talents or come of age, then the upcoming GLDA workshop is a must attend event. It’s Show Time is a daylong event, taking place on Saturday 9th of October at the National Botanic Gardens, which will feature two luminaries of garden creation. Mark Gregory is a 12 time Chelsea gold Medal winner, he has built over 60 show gardens, is the recipient of numerous industry awards and is a judge for Bloom in the Park. Orla Woods needs no introduction, a multi award winning plantswoman, she has built a hugely successful career spanning the last two decades and encompassing international garden events, stage setting for film production and show garden displays. Perhaps most highly regarded for her plant-orientated skills, she is responsible for creating displays for many of Ireland’s top designers. 

    Maximise the rewards and minimise the challenges of show garden creation with It’s Show Time, the GLDA’s autumn workshop. For further information or to book your seat, contact Annette McCoy on, phone: 01 2940092 Fax: 01 2948043, email: info@glda.ie or visit www.glda.ie

    Admission. 
    Full Members: €40
    Friends: €55
    Students: €35
    Public: €70

    '

    13 Aug 2010

    Neutrog South Africa meets Ireland

    South Africa meets Ireland

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - www.HortiTrends.com

    On a recent holiday to Europe, Alwyn Badenhorst, who is a Customer Relationship Manager with Neutrog South Africa, took some time to visit the new factory of Neutrog Ireland, and meet Niall Reynolds, Managing Director. Alwyn has been working for Neutrog for the past 3 years, and worked for a Neutrog distributor before that. Niall was delighted to hear about how Neutrog has grown in South Africa, and was amazed to hear that over 20,000 tonnes were produced there last year.

    Niall said “It’s great to speak to Alwyn about the progress in South Africa, and to learn how this was achieved. It’s very exciting to think that we could achieve similar results here over the next few years, and extremely valuable to learn from the experiences in both South Africa and Australia”.

    Alwyn commented on the similarities of the landscapes in Ireland and in the region in South Africa where he lives. He also said “I am very impressed with the new factory that Niall has set up here in Ireland, and I am extremely confident that Neutrog Ireland will be just as successful as our business in South Africa”. 

    Niall hopes to visit Neutrog South Africa in the near future.

     


    '

    11 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Teagasc Horticulture Development Unit Staff - www.HortiTrends.com

    Teagasc Horticulture Development Unit Staff.

    Name Address Core activity
    Acting Head of Horticulture
    Jim O'Mahony Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Management
    Mushroom Team
    Gerry Walsh Teagasc, Gorey, Co. Wexford Advisory
    Tom Kellegher Teagasc, Monaghan Advisory
    Helen Grogan Teagasc, Kinsealy, Dublin 17 Research
    Fruit Team
    Eamonn Kehoe Teagasc, Wexford Advisory / Research
    Dermot Callaghan Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Advisory / Research
    Nursery Stock Team
    Jim Kelleher Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny Advisory
    Matthew Lohan
    10 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Market for Horticultural Products - www.HortiTrends.com

    Farmleigh Plant Fair


    Now in its third year, the ever popular Farmleigh Plant Fair takes place once again in the majestic grounds of Farmleigh Estate.

    A wide variety of artisan growers from all over Ireland will have an extensive range of special and exotic plants on sale.

    Special guest celebrity gardener Dermot O'Neill will be holding gardening advice clinics to answer and solve all of your gardening problems.

    There will be a childrens garden for the up and coming gardeners, where they can plant flowers as well as an outdoor drawing centre where the children can draw all types of gardening plants.

    A plant creche will be available where you can leave your plants while you enjoy the food markets and music of the St James Brass and Reed Band.

    A family gardening day for you to enjoy and admission is free!

    Open from 10am to 5pm

    '

    5 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - 9th Scientific Statement. Recent Irish weather extremes and climate change from RIA - www.HortiTrends.com

    9th Scientific Statement. Recent Irish weather extremes and climate change from RIA

    In November 2009 Ireland experienced
    unusually wet weather that
    caused widespread flooding. It was
    followed by a cold spell from mid-December
    that culminated in exceptionally
    wintry conditions in the early days of
    2010. Both events have led to speculation
    that this is a manifestation of manmade
    climate change, a foretaste of
    what is to come. Is there any substance
    to this view or are the events explainable
    in terms of natural, as opposed to anthropogenic
    (human-induced), variability
    of the Irish climate?
    Climate models suggest that extreme
    rainfall events, such as occurred in late
    2009, are likely to become more frequent
    in the future, with additional
    changes in the average rainfall. These
    changes will be projected on the natural
    variability of the climate system, a fundamental
    feature that can produce large
    departures from the average. It is not
    possible to attribute any specific weather
    events to either of these components.
    The November 2009 rainfall was likely
    to be part of natural variability, supplemented
    with a small expected increase
    in rainfall due to anthropogenic climate
    change.
    Similarly, the 2009/2010 winter cold
    spell was consistent with the natural climate
    variability displayed in the climate
    records.
    Read more.....

    '

    5 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Glee 2010 - www.HortiTrends.com

    Glee Innovators Zone

    After a hugely successful launch in 2009 the Innovators Zone is back bigger and bold for Glee 2010.

    Innovators Zone

    With 32 companies (22 in 2009) the Innovators Zone is designed to provide an at-a-glance chance to source innovative products from entrepreneurs and small-scale manufacturers who are taking their first steps into the market, or making their debut at Glee.

    To get a head start on seeing the next big thing make sure you visit the Innovators Zone in Hall 5


    Spotlight on the Innovation…

    100's of companies will be launching products and showing you what's new for 2011, including...

    Boskke - Turning gardening on its head

    Defying gravity, Boskke's unique upside-down planter encourages abundant greenery at home and at work, without sacrificing floor space.


    The sky planter's innovative design allows you to save space, conserve water and transform your view of nature. Make sure you see it first at Glee 2010Click here for more information.


    Blooming High enter the Dragons' Den!

    Blooming High, who exhibited at Glee for the first time in 2009, bravely stepped into the Dragons' Den this week to pitch their revolutionary stackable planter. They received some great feedback and advice from the Dragons and interest in their product has already soared since they appeared on the show! 

    The Blooming High container can be used individually or stacked to create a tower affect. Watering is no problem for the lower sections as they come with a watering tube to enable watering and feeding of those that are stacked. 
    Click here for more information.


    Don't miss them at Glee 2010… visit Stand A11 in Hall 5 to see their product first hand!

    For the full exhibitor list visit www.gleebirmingham.com

    '

    5 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009

    National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009 

    The National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Annual Report for 2009 is now available as a download from the Centre's website. This report highlights the main achievements of the Centre in 2009 and provides information on many of the projects undertaken during that time.

     
    The National Biodiversity Data Centre would like to draw your attention to the online mapping system, Biodiversity Maps, which the Centre has developed.

    Since its establishment, the Data Centre has been working on putting in place the biodiversity information infrastructure needed to bring Ireland’s biodiversity data management firmly into the 21st Century. Part of this infrastructure involved the development of a state of the art web-based mapping system, Biodiversity Maps, through which data from different sources are brought together and made freely available to recorders, researchers and decision-makers. Most of the Centre’s key partners, including state and non-governmental agencies, have already provided databases to populate the system, with the result that 1.25 million records from 8,885 species are now stored securely and made available as a resource for data users.

    This resource is available to use at http://www.biodiversityireland.ie andhttp://maps.biodiversityireland.ie.

    The National Biodiversity Data Centre welcomes any feedback on the Annual Report 2009 and the work that the Centre is involved in.

    '

    2 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE SECTOR - www.HortiTrends.com

    SCHEME OF INVESTMENT AID FOR THE 

    DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL 

    HORTICULTURE SECTOR 

    Funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

    Terms and Conditions 

     3rd  Round   (2010) 


    General 


    This scheme is intended to assist in the development of the horticulture sector, 

    including beekeeping, by grant aiding capital investments in specialised plant 

    and equipment in commercial horticulture.  The scheme aims to promote the 

    diversification of on-farm activities; improve the quality of products; facilitate 

    environmentally friendly practices and improve working conditions. 


    Under this scheme and subject to conditions 1-31 beneath, aid at a rate of 40% 

    (at a maximum rate of 50% in the case of young farmers) will be payable on the 

    accepted cost (excl VAT, discounts and allowances) of capital investments 

    approved and completed to the satisfaction of the Minister for Agriculture, 

    Fisheries and Food. 


    The scheme is primarily aimed at those in rural areas engaging in horticultural 

    production and/or beekeeping. Non-production investments, which are directly 

    associated with primary production, may also be considered. 


    As the funds available under the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development 

    of the Commercial Horticulture Sector are limited, investments will be in 

    competition for grant-aid. The funding is for investments completed not later 

    than 15th October 2010, unless otherwise agreed.  Payment claims will be 

    accepted prior to this date.                                  

    Application forms may be obtained from Seamus O’Donnell/Bernadette Doran 

    at- 

     Crop Production and Safety Division, 

     Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, 

    Administrative Building, 

    Backweston Campus, 

    Young’s Cross, 

    Celbridge, 

    Co. Kildare. 

    Ph…01 5058801 / 5058797 

     E-Mail     Seamus.odonnell@agriculture.gov.ie 

     E-Mail    Bernadette.doran@agriculture.gov.ie                                          

      

    Definitions 


    For the purpose of this scheme:- 

    “the Minister” shall mean the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. 

    “the Department” shall mean the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 

    Food. 

    “ horticulture” means that branch of agriculture that relates to the cultivation of 

    plants used for food or for the production of food or ornament, including the 

    technical procedures necessary for the cultivation, production and preparation for 

    market of -    

                                                 (a) fruit,  

    (b) vegetables, (excluding potatoes and seed 

    potatoes), 

    (c) herbs,  

    (d) edible fungi, 

    (e) nuts,  

    (f) cut flowers 

    (g) decorative foliage  

    (h) hops 

    (i) sports turf, 

    (k) honey, 

    (l) pot plants, bedding plants and herbaceous plants  

    (m) nursery stock and Christmas trees), 

    (n) fruit trees, fruit bushes and fruit plants.

      

    “investment” means an investment in a commercial horticultural enterprise. 


    CONDITIONS FOR GRANT AID UNDER THE SCHEME OF INVESTMENT 

    AID FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE 

    SECTOR 

    SPECIFIC CONDITIONS 

    1.     Applications 

    • Applications should be made on an official application form. Sections 

    1–11 of the application form should be completed by the applicant who 

    should then arrange to have Section 12 completed by Teagasc or an 

    approved Adviser. 

    •  The required supporting documentation e.g. business plan, latest set of 

    accounts and up-to-date and fully descriptive quotations showing net 

    cost should accompany the application which must be returned to the 

    address as listed on page 2 not later than Friday 19th  February 2010                                       

    All quotations submitted must be original and fully descriptive. They 

    should be in printed format and on company headed paper. 

    • Only fully completed applications with all supporting documentation 

    will be accepted by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 

    Food.  Incomplete applications will not be considered for grant aid. 

    • Applications may be submitted by individual applicants or on behalf of 

    groups and other legal entities. In cases of joint or group enterprises, one 

    person should be nominated to apply on behalf of the enterprise.  In such 

    cases at least one member of the enterprise must meet the eligibility 

    requirements.   

    •  Applicants must demonstrate that they have the necessary skill and    

    competence for the running of the business.  In the case of group or joint 

    enterprises, at least one member of the enterprise will be required to 

    demonstrate that they have the necessary skill and competence. 


     2.         Eligible investments 

    The scheme will be confined to new investments only. 

    Applicants must declare where any relationship exists between the applicant 

    and the quoting company / supplier.  The nature of this relationship must be 

    declared fully on both application and claim for payment forms. 


    3. Commencement of Work 

    Work on a project must not commence until after the issue of letter of 

    approval by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food following 

    the receipt of the fully completed application, otherwise the application will be 

    rendered ineligible for consideration. 

    Items invoiced or delivered, purchased or payments made before issue of 

    approval letter by the Department, are not eligible for grant aid. Where work 

    commenced before the approval date, grant aid will not be paid. 

    The following preparatory measures will not be deemed to constitute 

    commencement of work and may be undertaken whenever appropriate: 

    Administrative procedures aimed at obtaining planning permission, planning 

    work specifically carried out by for instance, an architect, preparatory studies, 

    site clearance and fencing. 

       

    4.  Viability 

    The horticultural enterprise must be shown to be viable on a commercial scale. 

    To enable viability to be assessed, investment proposals must be supported by a 

    satisfactory business plan covering a minimum of two years and the most recent 

    set of accounts. Applications must contain a comprehensive profile of the 

    current and proposed enterprises, outlets, employment etc. Each project will be 

    assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the business plan, the 

    latest set of accounts and the project profile submitted with the application.  


    5. Resale of approved equipment 

    Applicants will be required to keep in their ownership /possession, for a period 

    of 5 years, such items in respect of which grant aid has been paid.  

    These items must be used for horticultural purposes only. 

    All items grant aided must be held within the State. 



    6.       Financing of approved items 

    Leasing agreements will be limited to a period of 4 years and hire purchase 

    agreements will not be allowed. 


      7.       Proofs of Payment of relevant invoices   

    It will be a requirement for all applicants to submit proofs of payment that are 

    acceptable to the Minister. These proofs will consist of original bank 

    statements and copies of encashed cheques. Alternatively, on line bank 

    statements (only high quality colour printouts with bank logo) with copies of 

    encashed cheques will be acceptable or if payment is made by direct credit 

    transfer an original bank statement or on-line bank statement listing payments to 

    the supplier must be submitted. 

    Amounts listed on bank statements must be clearly linked to the relevant 

    item on which grant aid is claimed. 

       

      8. Scale of Investments 

    The minimum investment which will be considered for grant aid is €10,000,   

    except in the case of beekeeping for which a minimum investment of €2,000  

    will apply. The upper cumulative limit for investments per applicant over the 

    period of the scheme 2007-2013 is €5m. Aid for each investment will be 

    decided on the availability of funds and on the ongoing priorities for each sector 

    within the industry as well as the quality and scale of the proposals. In some 

    cases  only part of an investment may be approved for aid. 


       9. Rate of Grant 

    Aid will be payable at the maximum rate of 40% (at a maximum rate of 50% in 

    the case of young farmers) on the accepted net cost of investments approved 

    and completed to the satisfaction of the Minister. The amount on which the 

    grant is calculated will, however, not exceed the actual net expenditure 

    incurred, (excl. VAT, discounts and allowances), and paid for by the applicant.   

    To qualify for the higher rate of grant aid on the basis of being a young farmer, 

    the applicant will have to be under 35 years of age on the date of receipt of a 

    valid application by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.  

    Such applicant’s must submit an original birth certificate with their 

    application.   

    To qualify for payment of grant aid at the 50% rate an applicant will have 

    to be in a position to demonstrate, by the date of application for payment of 

    aid, that they are in control of financial management of the grant aided 

    enterprise. 


     7 

    In the case of applications made by people operating in partnership or 

    where more than one person has joint interest in the business the higher 

    rate of aid will only be payable where all parties are under 35 years on the 

    date of receipt of valid application. 

    A company or corporate body will not qualify for the higher rate. 


    10.  Limitations 

    • Only new materials and/or new specialised horticultural plant/equipment 

    will be grant aided. Aid will not be paid for secondhand equipment, 

    materials or replacements, except in very exceptional circumstances to 

    be determined by the Minister. 

    • Aid will not be paid for repair and maintenance. 

    • No aid will be paid for projects which commence before issue of letter 

    of approval  by the Department.   

    • In the case of investments for buildings, the applicant must show details 

    of ownership of the site or it’s long-term lease (5 years from 1st January 

    2010) 

    • Projects which aim to increase production for which no sales outlets can 

    be found will not be grant aided. 


    11.        Aid from Other Sources 

      If any contribution towards the cost of approved works has been or may be 

    made from public funds, otherwise than under this scheme, the amount of aid 

    under the scheme may, where the Minister so determines, be reduced 

    accordingly. 

              Investment in mushroom enterprises which are eligible for consideration 

    for aid under the EU Producers Organisation Scheme will not be grant 

    aided under this Scheme 


                 An applicant must notify the Department if Business Expansion Scheme    

               or Seed Capital  Scheme investments have been raised and also declare the  

               amount raised.  Where funds have been raised grant aid will be reduced   

               by 20% in the case of applicants in assisted  areas and by 50% in non  

               assisted regions. 


    12 Competitiveness of Applications  

    Projects will be assessed for aid on a priority basis and the fact that a project is  

    aided does not create entitlement for similar projects in this or any future round 

    of the scheme. Priorities may change with time or circumstances. 


    13. Completion of Investments/ Deadline for submission of claim for payment 

    Approved investments must be completed and a claim for grant aid made within 

    the period stipulated by the Minister. 

    Fully completed claims for payment should be submitted as soon as 

    possible but must be received in the Department not later than  

    15th October 2010 unless otherwise agreed. Claims for payment 

    will be accepted prior to this date.  


    14. Legal Provisions, Consents, etc. 

    All applicants must undertake to comply with all National and EU Community 

    standards in respect of the investments approved under the scheme. 

    It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all works shall be carried out in 

    accordance with the provisions of all relevant statutes, regulations, byelaws and 

    duty of care.  

    The onus of obtaining all consents, permissions, etc. including planning 

    permission, consent to entry on, or interference with, land, other property or 

    right of any other persons, rests on the applicant. 

    It will be a requirement for an applicant, where as a producer in the food chain, 

    to register with this Department under EU Regulations, ie Regulation (EC) No 

    852/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the hygiene of 

    foodstuffs.  

    Payment of grant aid is subject to compliance with statutory requirements in 

    relation to the pay and working conditions of employees. 

    Payment of grant aid by the Minister should not be taken as evidence of 

    compliance with the above legal provisions, consents, etc.  


     15. Contractors Tax Clearance Requirements 

     In conformity with general practice the payment of financial aid as provided for 

    in this scheme is subject to the condition that, where a contractor is employed to 

    carry out construction work, that contractor must have a current C2 certificate 

    or tax clearance certificate from the Revenue Commissioners. 

     In the case of a non-resident contractor a general tax clearance certificate will 

    be required. This provision applies whether or not the non-resident contractor 

    has a registered office in this country. 


    16. Payment of Tax by Applicant 

    In the case of grant awards in excess of €10,000 the applicant must submit a 

    current Tax Clearance Certificate. This certificate should be submitted as 

    soon as possible but not later than the date of application for payment of 

    grant aid. 


    General Conditions 


    17. Unsuccessful Projects 

    Where eligible projects have not been approved for grant aid and have not  

    commenced, applicants may re-apply for consideration in the next round of    

    applications under the scheme subject to terms and conditions of the scheme at   

    that time. 


    18.    Information 

     Applicants must provide any information required by the Minister for the  

     administration, control, monitoring and evaluation of the scheme. 


    19. Justification for Granting Aid 

    Aid for investment will at all times be subject to the condition that, in the 

    opinion of the Minister the investment is justified. However, the approval for, or 

    payment of aid, does not imply any endorsement by the Minister of a project’s 

    safety, technical feasibility and/or economic viability. 


     20. Right of Entry 

    The Minister reserves the right to arrange for an inspection at all reasonable 

    times of any land, premises, plant, equipment and records of participants or 

    applicants for participation in this scheme. 

    The applicant or a person nominated by the applicant must make himself or 

    herself available to the Department Inspector in order to carry out the necessary 

    inspections.  


    21.    Responsibility of Applicant 

    The approval or payment of aid under the scheme does not imply the acceptance 

    by the Minister of any responsibility as regards the stability of any structure, or 

    the soundness of any materials used or adequacy for its purposes of any 

    investment, which is the subject of such approval or payment. This is the 

    applicant’s responsibility in the first instance and the onus is on him/her to 

    comply with current requirements as regards Health and Safety. 

    The Minister may require certification of quality of work and design. 


    22.    Protection of the Environment 

    To ensure protection of the environment, applicants: 

    • Must agree to farm in accordance with the criteria for Good Agricultural and 

    Environmental Condition (GAEC).  They must also participate in the 

    appropriate Bord Bia Quality Programmes or recognised equivalent, 

    including the environment and hygiene standards set out therein. 

    • May be required to make investments or to carry out additional requirements 

    over and above that covered in their initial applications e.g. investment in 

    hygiene or pollution control.  Such additional works will not be grant aided. 

    • May, without prejudice to paras. 17 & 19 be refused grant aid where the 

    Minister is of the opinion that the works proposed to be carried out would 

    cause damage to the environment – in particular to environmentally sensitive 

    areas or to a structure or area of historical or archaeological importance. 

      

     23. False Statements 

    Without prejudice to penalties applicable under national law, if, for the purposes 

    of obtaining aid under this scheme, a person knowingly makes a false statement 

    or withholds essential information, all or such portion of the aid given or to be 

    given as the Minister may determine shall be reimbursed or withheld. The 

    Minister reserves the right to exclude such a person from further participation in 

    the scheme for such a period as she/he shall determine. 

      

     24. Withdrawal of Aid 

     The Minister may withdraw approval of aid if the applicant fails to abide by the 

    conditions of the scheme. In such event all or such portion of aid given or to be 

    given shall be reimbursed or withheld as the Minister may determine. 


    25. Recovery of Aid 

    The Minister reserves the right to recover any grant aid paid where the 

    investment aided does not continue to be used for horticultural purposes for a 

    period of at least 5 years,  



    26. Review of Financial Aids 

    The Minister reserves the right to vary, where occasion so demands, the amount 

    of financial aid specified in the scheme subject at all times to the provision of 

    any relevant European Union legislation. 


    27. Procedures 

     The Minister shall lay down the procedures to be followed in the operation of  

     this scheme and reserves the right to alter these procedures from time to time. 


    28. Conditions of Approval 

     Every approval of development works and purchases under this scheme shall be 

    subject to all conditions laid down by the Minister being complied with in full 

    by the applicant. 

      

    29. Charges for Visits and Services 

     The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food reserves the right to impose 

    a charge for visits made, and services provided, by its officials in connection 

    with the scheme.   


    30. Decision of the Minister 

     The decision of the Minister on any matter relating to this scheme or to any  

     works there under shall be final. 


    31. Additional Conditions 

     The Minister may at any time lay down additional conditions for the           

    implementation of this scheme. 


    '

    1 Aug 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Smith to head Food Harvest 2020 Implementation Group - www.HortiTrends.com

    Smith to head Food Harvest 2020 Implementation Group

    Speaking at the official opening of the Virginia Agricultural Show in County Cavan on Saturday 31 July, Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food again re-enforced the importance of the Food Harvest 2020report as the key to growing the value of the agri-food, fisheries and forestry sector by a third over the coming decade and increasing exports to €12 billion.

    Underlying the priority with which the Government considers the report, the Minister said that he would be personally heading the implementation group to ensure that the ambitious targets in Food Harvest 2020 can be met in the shortest possible time. "I want to emphasise my personal commitment and that of the Government to the achievement of these ambitious but realisable growth targets" the Minister said.  "For the dairy sector which is so central to the Virginia Show, this plan targets a 50% increase in output.  This would enhance the value of primary output by €700 million, as well as downstream benefits in the form of increased dairy products values, export earnings and employment" the Minister added.

    The Minister also complimented the high standard of Holstein/Friesian cows in the Baileys Champion cow competition, now in its 27th year. "The continued loyal sponsorship of both Baileys and Glanbia Ingredients, Virginia, has elevated this competition to one highly regarded by breeders around the country.  It is one of Ireland's most prestigious dairy livestock events" he said, "and the kind of quality that is being rewarded here today represents the brightest future of an industry that has enormous potential for expansion and development".

    The Minister also drew attention to the very positive brand image that Irish dairy products have worldwide, and the tremendous potential to capitalise on that image, particularly in Asian markets where economic expansion and increasing levels of disposable income were leading to increased demand for dairy and other food products.

    "Irish food and beverage exports to Asian Markets were valued at €279 million in 2009," he said, "and there is tremendous potential for developing and expanding those markets, with consequent benefits for employment in Ireland.  In that context, it is essential that Irish food business operators take a strategic approach to developing Asian markets. They can be assured that in doing so, they will have the full support of my Department and its agencies, which will continue to be pro-active in building the kind of relationships that are critical to doing business in those countries. The road map of development as set out in Food Harvest 2020 will be a crucial factor in this process".    

    Complimenting the decision of the organisers of the show to move it to a Saturday this year, Minister Smith noted that the show attracts exhibitors from every county in Ireland and from further a-field to compete in over 450 classes on the day.  This show not only boasts some of Irelands finest livestock, but also has a wide selection of competitions for garden produce, home cooking, arts and crafts which attract a high standard of entry from competitors both young and old.

    Minister Smith welcomed the generous local sponsorship provided by a host of loyal sponsors. The Minister also said "Virginia show has grown to become one of the largest shows in the country. This is due to the hard work of the local organising committee under the President Ned Duffy. The organisers have shown great initiative and enterprise again this year in the quality of the programme for the day".

    In conclusion, Minister Smith took the opportunity of wishing the organizing committee, the exhibitors, the sponsors, the many visitors, and indeed everybody involved with the Virginia show an enjoyable day out.

    '

    30 Jul 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News - Tree Company 'Branches Out' - www.HortiTrends.com

    Tree Company 'Branches Out'

    Tree Company Branches OutA Co Antrim company has developed a unique portable sawmill that should generate significant export sales over the next few years. 

    M. Large Tree Services, which employs 24 people in Newtownabbey and this year celebrates its 40th anniversary, took its first step into design and manufacture with research and development (R&D) support from Invest NI.

    The company, which specialises in forestry, landscaping and woodcutting services and machinery, saw a gap in the market for the product. With assistance from Invest NI's Innovation Voucher scheme it was able to access specialist expertise from Queen's University to help it carry out a technical review of the design, testing and certifying requirements for the sawmill. It then developed a prototype with R&D support from Invest NI.

    Carol Keery, Invest NI's Director of Innovation, Research and Technology, said: "M Large has recognised that by developing its own range of innovative products it can not only open up new revenue streams but also protect itself from over reliance on other manufacturers. This product has substantial export potential and this will help to future-proof the company's viability." 

    The portable sawmill has a number of innovative features. It is easy to transport and assemble, comes in two sizes and incorporates a sawdust collection system. 

    Managing Director, Michael Large, said: "This is an exciting development for the company and hopefully is the first of many R&D successes for us.

    "The support from Invest NI was vital in enabling us to access expertise and support for prototype development and CE certification. We are confident that the sawmill will quickly establish itself in the UK and European markets and become a significant source of income for us."

    30 Jul 2010

    Horticulture & Fresh Produce News Ireland - Movers & Shakers | August 2010 from Fruitnet -www.HortiTrends.com

    Movers & Shakers | August 2010

    Full round-up of all the latest major appointments and departures within the European fresh produce industry over the past month

    Coop Trading's Svend Aage Kristensen, familiar to many in the trade as one of its most skilled and popular buyers, will retire at the end of August after a distinguished career spanning almost five decades, during which time he worked mostly as a fresh produce buyer for the Nordic consumer cooperatives.

    Spanish interprofessional citrus body Intercitrus has electedJuan Vicente Safont as its new president at the group’s annual assembly in Valencia. Mr Safont, who is also president of leading Spanish fresh produce group Anecoop, replacesJorge García of Castellon-based exporter García Ballester.

    Seald Sweet International’s chief financial officer Vitor Figueiredo will take over as managing director of Univeg’s Portuguese operations later this year, the group has said.

    The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has announced thatAdrian Barlow was elected to the position of vice-president of the FPC Council at the group’s recent annual general meeting. FPC president Jim Rogers has been re-elected for a further year.

    Dutch marketing group Fruit Vegetables Agency Holland has appointed Fred van Heyningen, CEO of Rabobank Westland, to its board. He will be responsible for strategic development and improving professionalism in the Dutch produce sector.

    Paolo Bruni, president of EU farming cooperatives association Copa, Italian marketing group CSO and Italian fresh produce group Apo Conerpo, has been accepted as a member of the Brotherhood of the Magnificent Onion.

    The Oppenheimer Group has appointed long-standing company member Nolan Quinn to lead its berry category in the new role of berry category director.

    '
    13 Jul 2010

    HortiNews - European Union to Promote Agriculture Products, Including Flowers - www.Hortitrends.com

    European Union to promote ag products, including flowers

    Over 60 million euros will be spent on 19 promotional programs



    The European Commission has approved 19 programs in 14 member states (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, France, Greece, Italy, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom) to provide information on and to promote agricultural products in the European Union. The selected programs cover numerous products including flowers, vegetables, fruit and organic products.
    The total budget of the programs running between one and three years is 60.6 million euros. The European Union will contribute half of the budget.
    “In an open global market, merely producing excellent food and drink is not enough,” said Dacian Ciolos, commissioner for agriculture and rural development. “We need to increase our efforts to explain to consumers the standards and the quality of what EU agriculture puts on the table. EU programs of this sort can really help our producers in an increasingly competitive world.”
    European Union to promote ag products, including flowers - Image
     

     

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