DIYWEEK.net

Glee has reported a rise in the number of garden centre, DIY superstore, furniture and builders merchants buyers to this year's show, despite a drop in total visitor numbers.
The show attracted more than 13,050 visitors according to unaudited figures released last week, a decline of more than 10% in the past year, and a drop of more than 40% since 2007.

The effect of rival launches will have played a part, coupled with the fact that this year saw the bi-annual Gafa+Spoga take place in Cologne.

However, organiser Emap has remained positive. Glee marketing manager David Langrish said: "We have been really pleased with the industry's response to the show. The aisles and stands were packed with the right kind of visitors...but even more significantly we saw our core visitor areas grow. Our data shows that overall Glee delivered more than 5% more garden centres, as well as 7% more builders merchants."

DIY Superstore buyer numbers were up 25%, while 6% more furniture retailers attended.

"Looking ahead to 2011," said Mr Langrish, "we want to build on this positive environment by growing Glee in the right directions. But our ultimate goal is to ensure that Glee continues to meet the evolving needs of the industry, as well as providing the annual meeting place for the garden and leisure trades."

Check out DIY Week's comprehensive Glee review in the Oct 22 issue.