The move to a September event, hailed as the perfect timing for the buying cycle proved successful for Glee 24 with attendee numbers up year-on-year, which included many new visitors to the event from the wider retail landscape. The garden market is attracting more retailers, with the likes of Dunelm, Robert Dyas, John Lewis, B&Q, QVC joining Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Dobbies, Hilliers, Tillington and Choice – all in attendance at Glee 2024.

According to the organisers, 60% of the Glee 2025 floorplan has already been secured, with 77% of 2024 exhibitors – a significant increase of 40% when compared to 2023 data.

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein, said: “From the second we cut the ribbon to officially open the show, the energy was electric. One exhibitor summarised it perfectly by saying ‘the buzz is well and truly back in the aisles’, and that is all due to the enthusiasm and willingness of our visitors and exhibitors. Glee has become the ultimate platform for growth and innovation, opening dialogue on those opportunities and challenges shaping our industry, and this September this role felt more relevant than ever. The passion and optimism that filled the aisles and exhibition stands, and a bulging floorplan for the 2025 show, marks an exciting tipping point for both Glee and the wider garden retail sector.”

A key feature of Glee 2024’s success was the support of trade associations, including the HTA, GCA, Gardenex, and GIMA. GIMA’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ events proved successful, with over 150 sessions fostering valuable new retail partnerships.

On the final day, the Floral Thursday fundraising initiative for the Greenfingers, raised over £2,300 to help the charity create therapeutic gardens at children’s hospices across the country

Glee 2025, will take place on Tuesday the 16th – Thursday the 18th of September and will be marked with a new hall layout (halls 8 -12) providing the opportunity for expansion.