The Gardener brand was launched in 2005 – that’s 20 Spring seasons of supporting garden centre retailers through the ups and downs of retail. Two decades of helping stores get set for success, even in a challenging economy.
This year, we’re sharing a few simple ideas to help you prepare for a strong season ahead.
Inspire, every visit
Today’s customer expects more than just good stock. They’re looking for inspiration, experience, and ease of shopping. Beautiful plants and decorative pots and décor still lead the way – but to really boost sales, the way you display and promote them is key.
Tip: Create high-impact displays with eye-catching signage and cohesive grouping of The Gardener range.
That’s where our new Upright Display Units come in. These contemporary, mobile units have been designed specifically to showcase the best-selling products in The Gardener range. When shoppers see a full, organised range in one place, they’re more likely to pick up multiple items on impulse – especially if it’s convenient and visually appealing.
The units are easy to move, restock and style. They look great on aisle ends or against walls, and our Retail Planogram takes the guesswork out of merchandising. Just download it when you place an order for your display.
Keep the wheels turning instore
Spring is busy, and having the right tools can make all the difference. Our SmartGro Garden Centre Carts are a retail essential for moving plants and stock, and they make work more enjoyable for staff. When it’s easy to move things around instore, your team are more likely to change things up and keep it fresh for shoppers.
Already seen in garden centres, supermarkets, and landscape yards across NZ, these carts are built to work hard.
Why should you get a cart for your store?
- Effortless Transportation – Move heavy or bulky items with ease.
- Durable Construction – Hot-dip galvanised steel resists rust and lasts for years.
- Safety Features – Anti-tip design prevents spills or accidents.
- Flat-Free Wheels – No punctures, just smooth rolling across all surfaces.
- Easy Maintenance – Quick-change wheels minimise downtime.
- Flat-Packed & Easy to Assemble – Efficient for freight and storage.
- 100kg Load Capacity – Strong enough for even the heaviest garden centre jobs.
Add to cart (excuse the pun!) and lighten the load instore.
Smart retail benching
The way plants are displayed can play a strong role in turnover. When Kings Plant Barn opened their new Stonefields store, they set a new standard in NZ garden retail. Their brief to us was for modern, modular display systems that would be accessible, flexible, and help reduce floor clutter.
Together we delivered a custom benching system that does all of that – and more. The layout now guides shoppers intuitively through the store, boosting engagement and sales. Self-watering flood trays reduce labour, tiered shelving maximises space, and the fresh format keeps customers engaged and staff happy.
“Kings new ‘Stonefields’ store breaks the mould of typical garden centres in NZ. Flood table irrigation is great for reducing staff labour, and the units are robust yet easy to move. Shoppers are enjoying the experience – and so are we!”
Kathryn Perkins, Senior Buyer, Kings Plant Barn Ltd.
Want to rethink your store layout in time for Spring? Get in touch, we’d love to help.
Retail Spring flyer – launching at Trade Day!
We’re putting the finishing touches on our Retail Spring Flyer, packed with seasonal deals, top sellers and exciting new releases. Be among the first to see it at the North Island Trade Day.
- North Island Trade Day
- Wednesday 6 August 2025
- Claudelands Event Centre
- 8:30am – 3:00pm
Don’t miss this key industry event – we’ll see you there!
Stock-up on the staples
Make the most of spring by planning now. Our best-selling items by The Gardener are practical, affordable, and designed for impulse purchases that fly off the shelves. Here’s just a few of our top picks for Spring:
Latex Garden Gloves – Machine washable, comfy unisex fit, in bright fun colours.
Kneeling Pads – Lightweight and supportive for sore knees and joints.
Big Tree Tubs – Popular for citrus, shrubs, or even garden storage.
Cloth Tree Ties – Soft, stretchy, and made from recycled fabric.
Coco Fibre Blocks – Sustainable growing media, lightweight for customers to handle.
Frost Cloth – Smarter plant protection against cold snaps!
Veggie Vine Towers – Supports climbing plants and encourages healthy, abundant crops.
We’ve prioritised healthy stock levels for all our retail customers, but Spring demand always runs high. Ordering early helps avoid disappointment.
Let’s make it your best Spring yet
If you would like merchandising ideas, retail display tips or product advice, please get in touch. We’ve learned a lot in 20 years and are ready to help.
Here’s to a blooming great Spring ahead!
