Outoor DIYers were not put off from buying supplies this Christmas despite poor weather conditions and the economic climate, suggest sales figures from the Garden Centre Group.
The group reports that sales from a five-week period up to December 27th reached £26 million, with gross profit levels standing at £14 million.
Nicholas Marshall, chief executive officer of the Garden Centre Group, said he was "delighted" with the company’s performance over the Christmas period.
He believes that the firm boasts "a sustainable business model that is well-positioned for growth".
Profits have increased, according to Mr Marshall, because the company’s focus has reverted back to being a "proper garden centre" after previous owners tried to "turn … garden centres into giftware emporiums".
He told the Financial Times that 800,000 members have signed up to the group’s gardening club, suggesting an air of enthusiasm for gardening and outdoor DIY.
The group, formerly known as the Wyevale Garden Centres, won a host of accolades at last year’s Gardeners’ World 2009 awards.
Posted by Jenny Summer