Glee in conversation with….Woodlodge
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As the garden retail sector looks forward to Glee 2022 - set to run at the new date of June 28th – 30th 2022 at the NEC Birmingham – we catch up with some of the show’s leading brands to find out more about their plans for the forthcoming show. Here, Woodlodge’s Managing Director, Michael Wooldridge, tells us more.
As anticipation mounts ahead of the show, the current rate of bookings for Glee is far outpacing that of many years past, from all eight sectors of the show, both existing market leaders and new emerging companies. Glee 2022 will offer the ideal launch platform for these brands, underscoring the incredible growth we’ve seen in the gardening and outdoor living sector over the last few years. Regular exhibitor – and one that continues to beat show sales records - Woodlodge, leading suppliers of garden pots as well as garden décor and festive ranges, will once again have a major presence at the fair.
Glee 2022 will return in late June – how do you feel about this new timeline?
“With a predominately Far East supply chain, the movement of Glee will allow us to reflect customer reaction and orders of new product in our production plans and still be able to react to the forthcoming season. The industry will take time to adapt to the new schedule, but ultimately we feel this is a good time for the show”.
Every year, Woodlodge’s stand seems to get bigger and bigger as you incorporate new brands under the Woodlodge umbrella – can you reveal any details of what people can expect to see from you this year?
“Woodlodge will be expanding all of its current brands. There will be two new category launches as well as a brand-new licenced pot range to announce at the show”.
How has the last few years been for your business?
“As with the whole of the industry, the last few years have been challenging. Consumer demand has been nothing short of amazing and all our new product launches and range extensions have been exceptionally well received by both the industry and consumers. Though all product areas have shown growth, there has been significant growth in Outdoor Pots, as well as our garden Décor brand Honey & Wild and Indoor Pots”.
What value does exhibiting at Glee provide your business?
“Exhibiting at Glee provides Woodlodge with the once-a-year opportunity to showcase our products to the whole of the industry, as well as being able to meet old and new customers in a relaxed environment”.
Any advice for brands making their debut at Glee?
“Make sure that the industry know you are going to be there. Be bold and imaginative in your stand layout and display solutions.”
What can we expect to see from Woodlodge over the next six months?
“The next six months is all about servicing our customers. Woodlodge has record amounts of stock both on site and in production. We have invested heavily in the head office site to ensure we can turn stock orders around quickly and efficiently. The field sales and merchandising teams have also been increased to ensure that stock is put out quicker and we are offering unrivalled levels of service to our customers”.