GCA: April a ‘resounding success’

The Garden Centre Association (GCA)’s Barometer of Trade (BoT) figures show that April was a “resounding success” for members – despite a slight year-on-year dip in sales. The standout performer for the month was seeds and bulbs, which topped the category chart with an increase of 6.11%, closely followed by clothing (5.92%) and catering (4.55%).

'Some very strong days'
Peter Burks, chief executive officer of the GCA, said: “Despite the fall of almost 2% in overall sales this April, compared to April 2025, this is actually a resounding success when you acknowledge that last April was 26.65% up against April 2024. The weather has continued to be very variable, and our garden centre members’ trading patterns have reflected that, with some very strong days, but also some poor ones.

“As expected, it is the gardening side that is seeing the most significant shortfalls, but it’s great to see that catering operations are still attracting customers in and growing their category. It’s also good to hear May started well and we’ve the promise of warm weather on its way too.”

The fourth category measured by the BoT that recorded positively was food hall/farm shop. It continued its steady performance showing a small uplift of 0.2%.

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