The GIMA Buyer Connect events are designed to facilitate strategic engagement between industry suppliers and key retail buyers. Buyer Connect events allow suppliers to maximise market exposure and strengthen relationships with top retailers, ensuring ongoing growth and opportunity.
Taking place at the Hillier Botley Garden Centre in Southampton, the Hillier Buyer Connect event will focus on sourcing product ranges for Hillier’s 2026 portfolio. According to GIMA, Hillier’s buying team is interested in fresh, unique product ideas, as well as seasonal ranges for Autumn/Winter 2025.
Dating back to 1864, Hillier operates 22 garden centres across the South of England and is one of the industry’s biggest players.
GIMA Membership Ambassador, Tony Kersey, said: “This Buyer Connect event is an invaluable opportunity for GIMA members to showcase their latest products to one of the garden sector’s most established and forward-thinking retailers. Hillier’s dedication to quality, sustainability, and product development makes them a key retail partner. By providing direct access to decision-making buyers, GIMA continues to help members unlock new business opportunities and drive long-term growth.”
The event is open to GIMA members and non-members. Each participating supplier will have a 25-minute appointment with the Hillier buying team. Additional slots can be booked for multiple product categories.
Attendance is limited to a maximum of two representatives per company, per session.
Interested suppliers need to apply for the event, the deadline for which is the 9th of May 2025. All applications are subject to approval by the Hillier team and confirmed meeting times will be communicated by the GIMA team in due course.
