Despite gardening fast becoming one of the nation’s favourite pastimes during the Covid-19 lockdown, garden centres have largely remained closed in order to comply with the restrictions placed on non-essential retailers. However, following the Government’s announcement on 10 May many have now reopened to the public or are about to do so.

It has been suggested that larger centres will take the lead, encountering the initial rush, while smaller retailers proceed with more caution. Now that travel is no longer limited to essential journeys and with very few places still to go, it is likely that people will make the most of a new and exciting destination.

This will provide a much needed boost to the industry, especially due to the seasonal nature of garden centres with spring and summer traditionally a peak trading time.

Reopening centres enables growers to salvage some of their stock, which they were unable to shift under lockdown. It may come too late for some, as reports have suggested thousands of plants have already been returned to the compost heap as a result of closures.

The lockdown has forced a number of centres to adapt and modernise, with those that now have an online presence, alongside a click and collect operation, able to make the best of these difficult times. Others who lack that capability will no doubt find it hard to acclimatise as we head towards a ‘new normal’. 

With considerable turmoil on the high street, garden centres are in a relatively good position, having historically broadened their ranges. They sell not only plants and gardening goods, but books, crafts and children’s toys, with some also establishing extensive food halls. 

What’s more, garden centres are likely to open before other mainstream retailers and may well be favoured in the long term for their out-of-town locations, more spacious shopping experience and partly outdoor layout.

With this in mind, we predict that garden centres will benefit from increased sales. However, this is unlikely to make up for the loss of trade from restaurants and cafés, which often account for 20 per cent of turnover or more in larger stores. Yet, with Government guidelines suggesting this type of space could reopen by July, there is still the possibility of boosting profits this summer.

Looking ahead we very much hope that the general public’s love for gardening continues long after lockdown, with footfall at garden centres growing for many years to come.

Further information

Read more: Aspects of Leisure