Rain fails to dampen sales as centres enjoyed a strong start to the year, with gift sales up 12%, according to the Garden Centre Association
The Garden Centre Association (GCA) has reported a “very good” start to 2026, with its latest Barometer of Trade (BoT) figures for January showing strong year-on-year growth despite persistent wet weather.
Of the 13 categories monitored, 10 recorded year-on-year increases compared with January 2025. Food hall and farm shop sales led the way, rising 15.31%, closely followed by clothing at 14.95%.
GCA chief executive Peter Burks said the results had given members renewed confidence heading into the spring season.
“Our members’ figures show a very good start to the year, even with the constant rain, which has put a real spring in their step as we look forward to spring,” he said.
“It’s very good to see plants, seeds and bulbs all performing strongly this early in the year. With support from the gifts, food halls and clothing categories, it’s really added up to a great month. The catering sales figure, representing 36% of total sales, demonstrates how important this category is at this time of year to keep pulling visitors in.”
Seeds and bulbs ranked third in January’s BoT, up 14.3%, followed by gifts (11.99%) and outdoor plants (11.01%). Catering sales increased by 10.07%, while garden sundries rose 7.48% and houseplants were up 5.62%. Pets and aquatics posted a modest gain of 1.24% compared with the same month last year.
The only significant declines were in furniture and BBQ products, down 7.13%, and hard landscaping, which fell 26.92%.
The GCA’s BoT reports are compiled from actual sales figures submitted by member centres and provide an up-to-date snapshot of trading performance.
