Continuing its successful programme of Buyer Connect events, the Garden Industry Manufacturers Association (GIMA) has teamed up with Longacres – the UK’s largest independent garden centre – to hold a special speed networking event with the buying team from this garden retailer on Thursday, November 30.

The family-owned group, currently operates four centres, with the flagship Bagshot store – where the Buyer Connect event will take place - retaining the title ‘highest turnover garden centre in the UK’ for the past seven years.  With an ambitious expansion plan in mind, Longacres owner, Nigel Long says he is keen to meet with new and exciting garden and giftware suppliers to assist with this growth.

All Buyer Connect supplier participants will be allocated 20 minutes with the relevant Longacres buyer, including Nigel Long himself. Each supplier will be able to bring two team members to present and are urged to consider presenting information regarding product features and benefits, as well as cost price proposals.

The Longacres buying team will be focussing on the following product categories – with both GIMA members and non-members invited to participate - Plastic Pots, Containers, Core Gardening Lines, Garden Décor, Watering, Artificial, Machinery, Tools, Fertilisers & Chemicals Pest Control, Outdoor Paint, Paving, Aggregates, Timber Fencing & Related Products, Outdoor pots, Water Features & Accessories, Candles, Indoor Clocks, Home Décor, and Giftware.

As this is such a high-profile event, GIMA is urging interested parties to confirm their involvement now to avoid disappointment. The cost for inclusion is £95 plus VAT for GIMA members and £145 plus VAT for non-members. Deadline for entry is November 17.

Further information about the event in association with Longacres, contact the GIMA team on 01959 564947 or visit www.gima.org.uk.