The Gardener brand was launched in 2005. Over two decades we have faced the economic ups and downs, and we enjoy working on a sector that has to pivot and innovate every year to succeed.
We are in daily contact with retailers across NZ—from independents to national chains, and there is no doubt that retailing is challenging. But in our conversations there is also quiet optimism and some truly rewarding feedback along the way too.
So today, we asked the retail team for a quick update on what they’re seeing across the retail gardening space and how PrimeHort is helping customers make the most of the opportunities.
What’s moving off the shelves for retailers right now?
Everyday value lines such as Gloves, Cloth Tree Ties, and Fertiliser Tablets are still fast-moving. Interest has grown in Coco Fibre Blocks because they’re eco-friendly and a quality growing medium. They’re also easy for customers to lift into their cars and it’s a simple product to apply at home. For retailers, because its compressed, it takes up less room on the shop floor and is light to move around.
We’re also seeing demand for giftable items, and anything linked to edible gardening supplies—think herb planters and grow-your-own kits like our Veggie Vine Towers. Spring and early summer lines generally gain traction early in the season, with watering products in the warmer months continuing to perform well.
Any noticeable changes in consumer buying behaviour in the last 12-months?
Retailers tell us that foot traffic is a lot quieter now and overall basket spend is lower. Consumers are still spending, but they’re more selective. They’re looking for quality, usefulness, and gifting potential. Products that are well-packaged, seasonal, or have a clear benefit are performing best.
How does The Gardener brand support retailers to stand out?
Having an extensive product range under the same brand name helps because it looks impactful instore. Our clever new Display Units help build a story around products — essentially bringing the garden to the shop floor to inspire the shopper. These Displays are compact and designed to place products in a strategic manner for sales.
Volume deals are important to retailers, allowing them to run instore promotions and keep it interesting for their shoppers.
Instore staff training sessions are another way we can assist retailers to get the very best performance out of The Gardener products and build confidence in their sales team.
How are supply levels and how can retailers stay ahead?
We’ve worked hard to guarantee stock certainty across core ranges and best-sellers. Our global suppliers are often put to the test with our new product ideas and modifications to existing lines – we’re grateful for the strong relationships that we’ve developed over the years.
For best results, we recommend retailers forecast early and taking advantage of our volume deals.
Where are the bright spots in retail gardening?
There’s great energy around indoor gardening, and we’re supporting this interest with stylish new wooden recycled decorative pots. DIY backyard upgrades like kitset greenhouses are a growing market, especially as consumers strive for more organic produce and less dependence on supermarkets. Our recently launched range of glasshouses and polycarbonate greenhouses is a must-view.
The “give it a go” gardener is still active and appreciate the basics like our latex reusable gloves and garden tool range.
Final word.
Every year we attend the Nursery Trade Days in Waikato and Christchurch, so come and see us on Wednesday 6th August at Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton – catch the new products in action and tell us what you’d like to see in the future.
We are here to help you succeed with advice, supply certainty, and quality products under The Gardener brand, so talk to us today for tailored support to suit your store.
