September's continued dry weather saw garden centre customers investing in improving their outdoor spaces, according to the latest figures from the Garden Centre Association (GCA).
Hard landscaping sales were up 27% on September 2013's sales, while other good sellers during the month were furniture and barbecues, 19% up, outdoor plants, 15% up, garden sundries, 12% up, houseplants, 7% up and catering 5% up.

At GCA member Bents Garden & Home in Cheshire, managing director Matthew Bent commented: "Weather is one of the biggest factors that affects garden centre sales, and 2014 has been a fantastic year.

"During the summer months anything garden-related proved successful, from our plants and garden care products to garden furniture and outdoor living. This trend continued through to September as customers were keen to make the most of the continued warmer weather.

"We, like most other garden centres, experienced increased sales in garden furniture, accessories and outdoor lifestyle, with figures significantly up on both budget and last year's figures. It has been a great end to the summer and further demonstrates the importance of good weather!"

Meanwhile, at Coolings in Kent, catering has romped ahead. Said managing director Gary Carvosso: "Year to date the catering offer is a star performer. We're budgeting for £1m turnover this year and we've seen growth of 13% year to date.

"The key areas for growth have been hot food, coffee and cake, in that order. We pride ourselves on serving fresh food, and serving the food direct from the kitchen. We introduced a coffee loyalty card to our Arthurs restaurant this year, which has lifted coffee sales, and we now have two bakers full-time supplying almost 100% homemade cakes. Afternoon tea has also been a very popular introduction this year."