Fran Barnes , Chief Executive of the Horticultural Trades Association ( HTA ) , share insights into the November Market Update , cast luminance on what to expect for trading during the festive season:“As we commence to countdown to Christmas within garden centers , November ’s Market data show a marked improvement in consumer trust and sustained manufacture resilience in tempestuous weather . “Despite the encroachment of storm , Ciaran and Debi , November demonstrated full-bodied performance . Footfall remained unassailable , demonstrated by an increment in transaction numbers of +6 % in the garden store , and overall , garden center sales were up by +2 % compared to November 2022 . This is the effect of continued hard catering and nutrient / farm shop sale counterbalance plant sales dampened by the weather . This consistent performance underscore the bear appeal of garden centers , which are resilient even in unpredictable weather patterns , a trend that has characterise much of 2023 .
“ The cafés and restaurants within garden centers experienced a +14 % increase in transaction numbers in November as consumers assay more than just products ; they starve an experience that provides tax shelter and leisure time .
“ Christmas is the perfect fourth dimension to create those experiences , and we see telling video display and added note value in garden center events . However , in November , the sales landscape painting presented a nuanced ikon . Despite an overall -5 % inclination in Christmas sales compared to November 2022 , likely due to the wallop of Covid pulling forward the alternate round across many categories like artificial trees and decorations , specific categories showcased far-famed ontogeny . Real Christmas tree emerged as a standout performing artist , demonstrate a +7 % increment . This style shine a connection to tradition and nature that powerfully vibrate with consumers .
" Lights also exhibited plus drift , posting +3 % growth . This aligns with broad consumer demeanor , as evidenced by a late report from John Lewis argue a heightened trend of early vacation planning , peculiarly among women . This approach is driven by a desire to manage costs amidst prevailing economic uncertainties . Our figures further underline a shift towards more paying attention and cost - witting holiday celebrations .
“ Consumer authority , as gauged by GfK ’s Consumer Confidence Index , increased by +6 period in the run - up to Christmas , reaching -24 . However , it remains historically scurvy , highlight consumer cautiousness amidst persistently high price . ”
HTA Members can show the full Market Update on thewebsite .
For more informationHorticultural barter Associationwww.the-hta.org.uk
