Garden centres sales across the UK are basking in festive success. The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has revealed a 6% sales increase for November 2024 compared to last year. Shoppers flocked to buy Christmas trees, festive lights, and enjoy hearty meals at garden centre cafés. Even unpredictable weather couldn’t dim the holiday spirit.
Garden Centre Sales: Real Trees Up 43%
Christmas came early for garden centres, with real Christmas tree sales surging by a staggering 43%. Artificial tree sales weren’t far behind, climbing 26%. Customers also lit up their homes with 18% more Christmas lights. Tree decorations followed closely, seeing a 15% boost.
Fran Barnes, Chief Executive of the HTA, attributed the success to the holiday season’s charm and robust catering services. “Despite the wild weather, garden centres stayed a top spot for festive shopping and dining,” she shared. With Black Friday and five Saturdays in November, customers embraced early shopping in full swing.
Rising Costs Loom as Garden Centres Brace for 2025 Challenges
While holiday sales sparkled, looming economic challenges cast a shadow over the new year. Garden centres face rising costs due to higher employer National Insurance contributions and increased minimum wages in 2025. The HTA warns this could cost the sector £134 million.
To cope, two-thirds of garden centres plan to raise prices. Many also expect to cut back on investments and freeze recruitment. Barnes expressed concern: “Our sector faces one of its toughest economic periods. Without government support, the future looks uncertain.”
Despite these pressures, the industry’s resilience remains strong. Customers continue to embrace gardening and festive traditions, giving hope for the months ahead.
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