Horticultural Trades Association reports growth in turnover, with record sales in gift vouchers.
Preliminary financial results from the HTA suggest that 2009 was a strong year for the association, with growth in turnover and profit.

The results also revealed a record year for sales of the HTA's National Garden gift vouchers. Sales of the vouchers were up on 10% in December and 4% overall.

HTA director general David Gwyther said: "We are particularly pleased with this healthy performance in 2009 given that the association chose not to increase member subscriptions, received lower investment income and still delivered a number of new initiatives for our membership... This puts us in a robust position for moving forward into 2010."

Meanwhile, the management and administration of the John Innes Manufacturers Association (JIMA) has moved into the HTA.

JIMA sets standards for the production and quality control of John Innes products and lays down technical specifications for each grade of John Innes. Each bag is therefore marked with a JIMA Seal of Approval.

Mr Gwyther said of the move: "We are delighted that JIMA has joined the fold. Alongside the work we do through the Growing Media Association, with JIMA onboard we will be able to enhance our support to growing media manufacturers."

JIMA chairman Jamie Robinson said: "I believe this will be a good move for JIMA members - it will enable us to improve the profile of JIMA and to focus on product quality. With the current focus on peat reduction, few consumers realise that John Innes compost were the original peat reduced composts and it is information like this we want to get across to consumers."