Garden centres aren’t just for grabbing a new houseplant or a bag of compost. Across the UK, garden centres are evolving into delightful dining destinations — and it’s a retail trend you don’t want to miss. The integration of dining facilities within garden centres has not only become increasingly popular but also a significant driver of footfall and revenue. 

Let’s dig into why this blossoming trend is reshaping the gardening retail industry. 

 

 

Garden Centres Meet Gastronomy

In the past, garden centres were purely practical — places where green-thumbed enthusiasts could stock up on seeds, soil and spades. Fast-forward to today, and they’ve transformed into lifestyle hubs offering everything from homeware to holiday décor — and now, tantalising food options. 

The concept of including food offerings has gained significant traction, with garden centres nationwide introducing or expanding their food and beverage services. In 2023, restaurants and cafés led the way in revenue growth for Garden Centres, recording a sector-wide increase of 23%. 

By offering dining options, garden centres provide a holistic experience that combines shopping, leisure, and gastronomy, setting them apart in a competitive retail landscape. 

The integration of dining facilities has proven to be a lucrative strategy for garden centres. According to the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), garden centre cafés and restaurants attracted 148 million visits in 2024, with 56% of UK adults visiting at least once. 

In fact, some UK garden centres are just as well known for their mouth-watering Sunday roasts or award-winning afternoon teas than their plant selection. Big names like Dobbies and Blue Diamond have successfully created these inviting spaces, turning a once-practical visit into a delightful day out. 

This evolution isn’t random; it reflects changing consumer preferences. This trend aligns with consumers' growing preference for experiential shopping, where the environment and experience are as crucial as the products themselves. 

Customers are seeking experiences, not just products. In a world where online shopping is faster than ever, physical retail spaces need to offer something special to draw shoppers in. Many garden centres have achieved this by combining nature, home décor and tasty treats in one relaxing visit. 

The fusion of garden centres and dining establishments has also paved the way for collaborative spaces that generate community engagement. Many garden centres host workshops, cooking classes using garden-fresh produce and seasonal festivals, further enriching the customer experience. 

These activities transform garden centres into community hubs, offering educational and recreational opportunities that attract a broader audience. This blend of retail and community engagement not only drives foot traffic but also generates brand loyalty, as customers associate the brand with positive and enriching experiences. 

 

 

The Psychology Behind the Trend 

There’s clever psychology at play here, too. Food creates a sense of comfort and encourages people to linger. When customers feel relaxed, they’re more likely to spend. After all, who isn’t tempted to browse a little longer after enjoying a slice of cake and a hot chocolate? 

Retailers are also tapping into sensory marketing. The earthy scent of soil, the vibrant colours of flowers and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee combine to create an immersive experience. 

This blend of nature and nourishment taps directly into our desire for calm, mindful spaces. And it works—studies suggest that up to 40% of purchases made in garden centres are unplanned, driven by that relaxed, feel-good atmosphere. 

It’s a simple equation: the longer people linger, the more they spend. In fact, research by Path Intelligence shows that just a 1% increase in dwell time can lead to a 1.3% increase in sales. It’s little wonder then that more and more garden centres are investing in spaces where customers can sit, sip and savour—before heading back for one last browse. 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle and Social Appeal

Garden centre cafes have become unexpected social hubs. Families meet for breakfast, retirees enjoy leisurely lunches and friends gather over cream teas. These spaces feel less rushed than traditional high street cafes, making them ideal for relaxed socialising. 

For instance, the British Garden Centre Group, the UK's second-largest chain, reports that restaurants now account for a little over 30% of their income and are the largest gross margin contributor to the business. 

On top of that, the connection to nature is key. Eating among greenery creates a feeling of wellbeing and relaxation. It’s a perfect example of how retail trends 2025 are increasingly shaped by lifestyle aspirations. Shoppers are seeking calm, connection, and community — and garden centres are delivering just that. 

 

 

 

Food Retail Strategy

Menu Curation and Local Sourcing:

When it comes to menu offerings, quality and consistency are paramount. Garden centres should focus on curating a menu that reflects both seasonal produce and the local flavour, appealing to the discerning palate of today’s consumer.

Sourcing ingredients locally not only supports the community but also resonates with customers who are increasingly concerned about sustainability and ethical practices. Offering a mix of light, healthy options alongside indulgent treats can cater to a diverse clientele, ensuring that there is something for everyone. 

 

 

Customer Service and Experience:

High levels of customer service are essential to convert first-time visitors into loyal patrons. Staff should be well-trained not only in the intricacies of the menu but also in the ethos of the garden centre, ensuring that every interaction reinforces the centre’s commitment to quality and community.

Engaging customers through personalised service—such as recognising regulars, offering bespoke recommendations, and inviting feedback—can significantly enhance the overall dining experience. 

From a business perspective, adding food services to a retail space is a smart move. Cafes and restaurants create additional revenue streams, helping garden centres thrive year-round — even when plant sales slow during colder months. 

Dining spaces also build customer loyalty. A quick coffee visit can turn into a habit, keeping visitors returning regularly — and each visit boosts the chance of impulse purchases. Some centres are even hosting seasonal promotions, themed dining events, and cooking workshops to further drive sales. 

 

 

 

Garden centres have blossomed from simple plant suppliers into thriving lifestyle destinations. By blending shopping with inviting dining spaces, they’ve tapped into powerful retail industry trends that focus on experience, connection, and comfort. 

Retail trends are changing fast, and garden centres are proof that when businesses embrace experience-led shopping, they can create something truly special. 

Those that continue to innovate and integrate diverse services are well-positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape—offering consumers a unique blend of nature, retail and gastronomy, where you can quite literally dine amongst the daisies. 

 

 

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