The removal of VAT exemption on products worth up to £18 posted from the Channel Isles to the mainland is hitting employment and the islands' economy. The increase in postal charges will also become a drag on the mail-order plant trade.
The sale of premium products has held up well and in a number of cases increased through recent, recessionary times. Quality usually gives value for money and can carry attractive profit margins, and if this is the case garden retailers are well advised to raise standards and build respected brands.
It is very difficult to get 100 per cent accuracy in printed copy, as anyone who has to proofread a weighty catalogue will appreciate. Even when we take the greatest care and read things over and over again, the most obvious mistake can sometimes go unseen.
Peter Seabrook looks at preparations for a busy summer season.
While the UK garden trade remains remarkably buoyant and optimistic, it is of concern that too many potential members of staff remain complacent and unaware of the fierce international competition that is building in every area.
Money is funny stuff, quite difficult to earn, even more difficult to hang on to and very easy to fritter away.
Peter Seabrook flags up the tax changes that will put extra pressures on costs this year.
Peter Seabrook wonders at the cost of sidelining disease-hit busy lizzies next season.
Peter Seabrook finds some quality home-produced stock and offers advice on internet selling.
A task force has been set up by Defra under the chairmanship of Garden Organic chief executive Myles Bremner to look at food growing in schools.
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