Exhibitors at next week's Glee will be able to book a 10-minute 'speed dating' slot with one of a range of buyers, thanks to a new GIMA initiative.
The trade association says that a concern of exhibitors at any trade show is getting to meet some of the buyers they do not know. Now, through Buyer Connect, suppliers will get the chance to introduce themselves, their company and product to retailers and explore with them their level of interest. It is then down to the supplier to follow up after Glee and seek further meetings to gain product listings.

Buyers already committed to supporting the initiative this year include: Steve Guy, Dobbies; Neil Fishlock, Decco; David Yardley and Allan Wilson, Klondyke Group; Gerrard Smith, Garden Centre On Line; Simon Moore, Wilkinsons; Richard Pennell, Future Marketing Group; Sandy Parker, Notcutts Garden Centres; Michelle de Lavis-Travis, Choice Marketing; and David Gillespie, Homebase.

Exhibitors wanting an appointment with one of these buyers need to register their interest with GIMA by email to GIMA director Neil Gow at neilgow@gima.org.uk. "Demand is expected to be high," he said. "We're working up an appointments diary of 10-minute slots for the event, which will take place on Tuesday, September 17 at the heart of Glee in Hall 5, between 10am and 12 noon. Start and finish times of each meeting will be strictly controlled and suppliers need to prepare well and do their homework to make the most of this fantastic opportunity."

GIMA president Vicky Nuttall added: "It can be difficult, especially for smaller companies, to get their foot in the door of the bigger retailers and groups. This is just the sort of support as an association we seek to give our members, so we're really pleased to be getting this off the ground. We're extremely grateful to the influential buyers who recognise the potential of Buyer Connect and are offering up their time to meet potential new suppliers to their businesses."

Glee runs at Birmingham's NEC September 15-17.