15 Dec 2010

Botanists Take Aim at War Zone

A group of botanists from Edinburgh has travelled to Afghanistan to train a new generation of plant scientists in how to conserve the region's unique but threatened plant species.

The team from the Centre for Middle Eastern Plants, part of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh
, are at the start of a three-year programme in partnership with Kabul University to teach a group of 20 students how to identify and conserve plants.

Team member Dr Matthew Hall said the strategy of involving the Afghan people in conservation efforts is quite deliberate. 'I could do it myself, but that's not engaging the botanical community in Afghanistan,' he said. 'We're starting from scratch in training, research concepts and plant identification, but that way we leave a lot more of a legacy than a list with a lot of Latin names on it.'

Afghanistan has one of the richest populations of plants in the world, nearly a fifth of which grow nowhere else. However, more than30 years of war has devastated the environment and put the survival of many species under threat. At the same time the fighting has severely curtailed plant collecting expeditions, so records of many species are limited to single sightings in the 1970s.

The team hopes to travel into the field with the students in selected areas where the situation is more stable to assess populations of wild tulips and irises including the highly rare Iris porphyrochrysa, recorded only once in the Bamia region of central Afghanistan. The information will be used to draw up a Red List of plants in need of protection. At the same time a parallel programme is helping develop the Kabul Botanic Garden.

'I was bowled over by the amount of enthusiasm and concern in Afghanistan about the normal things – the quality of the air, conservation and the environment,' said Matt. 'In Kabul real life has to happen if Afghanistan is going to have a sustainable future – and biodiversity is part of that.'

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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%.

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

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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. 

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24 Nov 2010

M&S Gearing up for Christmas Flower Sales

Imag0077
7 Oct 2010

FACTS & FIGURES HORTI FAIR 2010

FACTS & FIGURES HORTI FAIR 2010

FACTS AND FIGURES as at 4 October 2010

International Horti Fair 2010

In 2010 the International Horti Fair is being held in the Amsterdam RAI for the eleventh time. It is the joint continuation of the NTV international horticulture trade fair in Bleiswijk (since 1972) and the International Flower Trade Show in Aalsmeer (since 1962).

Organizer

International Horti Fair BV

Amsterdam RAI, halls 1 to 6 inclusive

Europaplein 22, 1078 GZ Amsterdam (use this address for satellite navigation as well)

Dates

From Tuesday 12 to Friday 15 October 2010 inclusive

Opening times

From 10.00 – 19.00 hours on all days

Admission

Free of charge for professionals on production of invitation/entrance tickets, which are distributed via exhibitors and trade publications or can be downloaded from www.hortifair.com/tickets (price

€ 40 at ticket office).

Surface area

Approximately 35,000 gross m2

Segmentation

Horti Tech (technology and supplies) in halls 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Horti Grow & Trade (production and trade/services) in halls 1 and 5

 

Number of exhibitors

approximately 530

House of Quality: 1.000 participants

Exhibition theme 2010

‘Earning Sustainably’

National entries

China, Egypt, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Kenya, South Korea, Spain

Countries of origin

Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Sweden, Taiwan, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States.

Visitors

The International Horti Fair attracted more than 34,000 visitors in 2009, approximately 48% of them from the Netherlands. Registrations and surveys have shown that the international visitors come from more than 100 countries, making the Horti Fair in the Netherlands the most intensively visited trade event in horticulture and the most international of horticultural trade fairs worldwide at the same time.

Board

Chairman of the Board is Ewald van Vliet, mayor of Lansingerland and member of the Board of Greenport Nederland, among other things. Harm Maters (chairman AVAG), Cees Visser (director Visser International Trade & Engineering), Maarten Leune (member of the board of Plantum NL) and Igo Janssen (managing director Horticoop) are members of the Board on behalf of the sector organizations AVAG, Federatie Agrotechniek, Plantum NL and VPN respectively. Independent board members from the sector are Frank Hendriks (cultivation, director Hendriks-Agro), Sander Kroll (commerce, director Ki Plants) and Dick Oosthoek (services, Rabobank Nederland), Bert Koeze (Royal Van Zanten) and Jacques Teelen (former director of FloraHolland).

Exhibition Committee

Sjaak Bakker (Javo), John van der Knaap (Priva), Mariëlle van Buuren (BVB Substrates), Harry Kloppenburg (Fides), Frank Boers (Boal Systemen) and Leo Swart (Modiform).

Horti Fair Innovation Award

All new products and services registered on time by Horti Fair participants automatically compete for the Horti Fair Innovation Award (in partnership with Reed Business). The winner will be announced on Tuesday 12 October, the first day of the trade show.

Horti Fair Breakfast Briefings
 under the auspices of Syntens

Participants organize Breakfast Briefings before the exhibition opens in the morning. The Briefings are a creative combination of presentations, networking and breakfast, in preparation for a visit to the Horti Fair. 

Special pavilions:

Technical Trials

(stand 04.0417)

Technical Trials is a new pavilion at the Horti Fair and is the result of cooperation between a number of leading technical producers. The participants “Central Station” is the pick-up point at the Horti Fair, where visitors to the trade show receive information from and about the 17 participating companies.

Horti Fair Stage

(hall 6)

The Horti Fair Stage in hall 6 of the Amsterdam RAI exhibition complex is the new events platform and 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 and the final round of Ranking the Grower will all be held here. Furthermore, the Horti Fair Stage is a platform for theme and new products presentations and the first rounds of the Horti Business Game.

Horti Fair House of Quality

hall 1 (01.0126, 01,0228) and hall 5 (05.0102, 05.0202)

The Horti Fair House of Quality (sponsored by Interpolis) with more than 1,000 entries is worldwide the greatest judging event for flowers and plants from individual growers. Their entries are assessed by expert judges from the Stichting VKC (Permanent Judging Committee).

Horti Fair House of Technology & Innovation

(stand  04.0226)

With the addition of Innovation to the name to emphasize renewal and a vibrant programme of debates once more, the Horti Fair House of Technology & Innovation again promises to be one of the top attractions at the coming Horti Fair. Participants present horticultural technology.

Horti Fair House of Software

(stand 01.0428)

This special interest pavilion offers visitors a complete and future-focused impression of the latest developments in software for greenhouse horticulture. The Horti Fair Internet café completes the pavilion.

Horti Fair Breeders’ Market 

(stand 01.0440)

This pavilion offers a concentrated overview of the ranges offered by specialized breeders and suppliers of parental material.

Horti Fair Career Plaza

(stand 03.0302)

The Career Plaza is the pavilion at the Horti Fair that links the horticultural sector with young people who are looking for a job or are considering their choice of profession. Special activities are organized in the pavilion for students who are becoming acquainted with trade and industry by meeting exhibitors at the trade show.

AVAG Market

(stand 04.0220)

Sector pavilion for members of this organisation for Dutch suppliers to greenhouse horticulture.

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.

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6 Oct 2010

HortiFair 2010 Update

Horti Fair Stage: presentation venue available

There are still opportunities on the Horti Fair Stage for Horti Fair participants who would like to take advantage of an extra platform to present their activities. Your presentation of a product, introduction of a new product, welcome for a large delegation: inquire into the options and send us a mail.

But send it as soon as possible, so that your event can also be included in the daily agenda for the Horti Fair (appears in the Daily News, the press agenda, on the website, etc). The Horti Fair Stage is certainly the platform for the opening of the Horti Fair, prize ceremonies, Flowertrends (flowered by Dutch Creations), introduction of the Anthura marketing concept, the presentation of the award for Ranking the Grower, interviews for KAS TV and rounds of the Horti Business Game. Opportunities are still available on every day of the exhibition and no extra costs are charged for this service!

lijntje

Registrations start for 2011

The Horti Fair 2010 will see the start of registrations for the Horti Fair 2011, when your trade show will be held in the first week of November at the same time as the FloraHolland Trade Fair. This means the Horti Fair is one of the founding partners of the International HortiWeek and has the Holland Complex (halls 8 to 11 inclusive) of the Amsterdam RAI in use.

The registration forms will be delivered by the Horti Fair team and you can also meet the team members on the Horti Fair stand in the House of Software (stand 01.0428). The modern exhibition accommodation of the Holland Complex (high halls, more direct light, modern entrance, good restaurants and excellent facilities for supply and dismantling) is extremely suitable for the Horti Fair horticultural trade show. Participants in 2010 will be given first opportunity of taking out an option on stand space for the Horti Fair 2011! Please contact Jacco Mantel (j.mantel@hortifair.nl) for details.

lijntje

Principal stand contractor Arti'70

You can still place additional orders for furniture in the Arti'70 webshop (link) until 10 October. Thereafter Arti'70 can be reached via the service desk in the main entrance of the Amsterdam RAI. The opening times are: Monday 11 October from 08.00 to 17.00 hours and Tuesday 12 October from 08.00 to 10.00 hours.

lijntje

Press Room Horti Fair 2010: K102

Press room K102 is in use for the Horti Fair 2010 and you can deliver press files for the international trade press there between 14.00 and 15.00 hours on Monday 11 October. Also check out the tips for optimum PR before, during and after the Horti Fair. Are there any ideas, special stand campaigns or events you haven't passed on yet? Then don't lose any time in contacting the Horti Fair press service.

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.

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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 

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.

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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]

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.

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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 

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.

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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 

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.

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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.

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.

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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 

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.

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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. 

 

 

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.

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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

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.

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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 

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

'

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.

    '

    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.

     

    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.

    '

    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. 

     

    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.

    '

    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

     

    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.

    '

    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. 

     

     

    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.

    '

    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

    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

    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.

    '

    25 Aug 2010

    Colour your Life Newsletter

    Horticulture & Fresh produce News Ireland www.HortiTrends.com

     

     

    Heading
    Colour your Life trade newsletter- helping your business grow! September 2010
    ‘Bumper harvest’, with soft fruit including Rubus and Ribes 

    Everyone knows the value of eating plenty of fresh fruit - what about getting some of it from your own garden! The boom in growing edible plants is set to continue and it’s easy to see why. What could be better than picking your own fruit that you’ve watched maturing over the weeks?


    Be a real-food facilitator!

    Take the chance to show to customers how easy it is and how much fun it can be to grow some of yourown. 

    Try organising a soft fruit weekend with experts on hand (what about the WI?) to advise on the arts of jam making. Home grown fruit can also make an important contribution to a healthy diet.

    Sign up for regular campaign updates on Twitter and Facebook or go to www.colour-your-life.co.uk for info, materials and ideas this autumn.

    Plant choices ...


    Retail results

    In a garden centre in Holland an exciting trial is taking place. It revolves around the concept ‘what happens to sales when you make use of Colour your Life materials to their best potential?’ And the results are impressive! 

    For the June roses promotion, on a ‘this year/last year’ comparison, look at the results: 

    Climbing roses: 2009: 86 pcs / 67 customers, 2010: 105 pcs / 79 customers
    Grafted roses: 2009: 2 pcs / 2 customers, 2010: 59 pcs / 58 customers

    This centre increased turnover by 30% in this month alone.
    .
    The evidence is clear – investing  effort in POS = direct benefits in sales. 


    Coming to GLEE this year?

    If you are (and it promises to be a superb show this year), make sure you attend our seminar on 22 September at 10.00am with retail guru  Phil Rogers . Phil has over 30 years retail and talent management experience with giants such as Ikea and Asda.  He will be giving top tips on how to grow sales in your planteria! 
    Email contact@colour-your-life.co.uk to register for the seminar – If you are one of the first 50 registrations, you will receive a free voucher to use on the Luma poster service site. Vouchers will be given when you arrive at the seminar. 

    For more information contact Mark or Samantha on 01480 860426


    What else will we be talking about?

    Bumper Harvest tie-up with Garden Organic One-Pot-Pledge

    Colour your Life is delighted to be working with Garden Organic in September to link ‘Bumper Harvest’ with their One-Pot-Pledge - a big push to get people who have never grown anything before, growing and eating their own produce. Launched earlier this year, it has been endorsed by some big names from Jamie Oliver, Bill Oddie and Jerry Hall to gardening champion Alys Fowler. 

    Some big commercial names from horticulture are backing the campaign, as you will see on the website www.onepotpledge.org

    September’s promotion is a great fit for the One-pot-pledge because some varieties of Rubus are so well suited to container growing and soft fruit like this is a great way in for novices to the world of grow-your-own. This is the time of year to promote all kinds of edibles, so why not give it special emphasis in the planteria this month. With two major campaigns pushing on the door too, what is there to lose? 

     

    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

    GLDA : UPCOMING DRAWING WORKSHOP_

     

     

    Devil in the Detail: Cross Section and Construction Detailing Workshop

     

    One of the biggest challenges that creative people face is how to realise inspired ideas into

    technical details that can be easily interpreted by a landscape contractor.

     

    Sectional elevations, construction details and a host of other technical plans are often

    the downfall of even the best designers. And many of the most innovative ideas fail to be

    realised because of limited understanding of what detail drawings should encompass.

    Thankfully for Ireland’s budding designers, the Garden and Landscape Design Association

    (GLDA) have come to the rescue. Responding to huge industry and public demand, two

    of the GLDA’s key members, Jane McCorkell and Lisa Murphy, both renowned designers,

    have developed a one-day detail drawing program created specifically to help people realise

    their creative garden ideas. “The day will tackle a number of drawing types,” explained

    Jane. “We will be providing tips and guidance on how undertake construction detailing for

    gardens as well as insight into how to draught sectional elevations.” In addition to direct

    instruction by the program leaders, the day will also include a number of hands-on exercises

    that allow attendees to practice their new techniques under professional supervision.

     

    The event, which is entitled Devil in the Detail...a guide to sectional drawings and

    construction detailing, is being held on Thursday 23rd September at The Mill, Johnstown,

    Naas, Co Kildare, and will run from 10am to 4.30pm. So if your looking to realise your

    own garden ideas, seeking upskill your design drawing skills or simply frustrated with your

    drawing abilities, then the up-coming GLDA drawing workshop is a must attend event.

     

    For further information, to book your place (places are limited so please book early) or

    to find out more about the GLDA, contact Annette McCoy on: Tel 01 294 0092, e-mail:

    info@glda.ie , web: www.glda.ie

     

     

    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
     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.

    '

    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


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    ExpoSure:

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

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    Proven profitability of participating in Horti Fair

    0 High scores

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    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

    '

    17 Aug 2010

    Plants chosen for 2011 RHS trials

    Plants chosen for 2011 RHS trials

    Delphinium trial at Wisley

    The RHS has just announced its 2011 plant trials which will cover 14 new, and 21 current plant groups.

    'We have been looking very carefully at the needs of our members and other gardening enthusiasts and have produced, we believe, an exciting and useful programme of trials,' says Kylie Balmain, RHS Head of Horticultural Trials & Relations.

    'Each year we receive extensive support to deliver our trials programme especially from our plant committee and panel members. They spend a lot of time assessing and monitoring each trial to ensure the RHS can recommend plants of very high quality for the Award of General Merit (AGM).'

    An AGM is a valuable award and key to helping people make informed plant selection. By choosing an AGM plant, gardeners can be sure that it meets exacting criteria including: ‘outstanding excellence for ordinary garden decoration; not requiring highly specialised growing conditions or care; not particularly susceptible to any pests or diseases'.

    The majority of trials are conducted at RHS Garden Wisley with additional trials managed off-site with partner gardens and members of the trade.

    Horticulture & Landscape News.

     

    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

    '

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