Continuing its successful programme of Buyer Connect events GIMA has confirmed that it has teamed up with Longacres – the UK’s largest independent garden centre – to hold a special speed networking event with the buying team from this garden retailer.

The family owned group of garden centres currently consists of four centres, with the flagship Bagshot store retaining the title ‘highest turnover garden centre in the UK’ for the last seven years.  With an ambitious expansion plan, Longacres owner, Nigel Long, is keen to meet with new and exciting garden and giftware suppliers to assist with this growth.

All Buyer Connect supplier participants will be allocated 20 minutes with the relevant Longacres buyer, including Nigel Longhimself. Each supplier will be able to bring two team members to present and are urged to consider presenting information regarding product features and benefits, as well as cost price proposals.

The Longacres buying team will be focussing on the following product categories – with both GIMA members and non-members invited to participate - Plastic Pots, Containers, Core Gardening Lines, Garden Décor, Watering, Artificial, Machinery, Tools, Fertilisers & Chemicals Pest Control, Outdoor Paint, Paving, Aggregates, Timber Fencing & Related Products, Outdoor pots, Water Features & Accessories, Candles, Indoor Clocks, Home Décor, and Giftware.

As this is such a high-profile event, GIMA is urging interested parties to confirm their involvement now to avoid disappointment. The cost for inclusion is £95.00 + VAT for GIMA members and £145 + VAT for non-members. Deadline for entry is November 17th.

Further information about the Meet the Buyer Event in association with Longacres, please contact the GIMA team by calling 01959 564947 or visiting www.gima.org.uk.