Bord Bia today released results from their commissioned research into the horticulture sector at the 21st Kildare Growers Trade Show in Punchestown. The Survey revealed that the amenity market has grown by over 70% in value over the past 4 years to almost €1 billion.
Carol Marks, Development Marketing Specialist, Bord Bia commented, "It is a great boost for the industry to have growth figures confirmed and the results auger well for the future. Independent garden centres’ strengths lie in their knowledge of plants, but customers are increasingly looking for the full garden solution. This provides a great area of opportunity for garden centres to develop gardening and landscape services in the future"
Independent garden centres continue to retain the biggest share of the market for plants and flowers. Consumer spend in these centres has doubled since 2001, from €120 million to €240 million. 50% of all outdoor plants and flower purchases are made through these centres. The research shows that purchasers of outdoor plants and flowers are predominantly female while 60% of the spend on trees, herbs, fruit & vegetables is attributable to males.
The thirty five plus age bracket are the highest purchasers of outdoor plants and flowers, while hanging baskets and herb, fruit & vegetable buyers are of a younger age. Activity throughout the horticulture market is widespread across all social class groups. This increase in consumer spend reflects a trend towards outdoor lifestyles and consumer’s increased investment in their garden.
In excess of six and a half million outdoor plants and flowers were purchased in the last year, representing an increase of 27% over the last 4 years. This amounts to 37% of all purchases in the amenity market. Outdoor plants and flowers are primarily bought for the home.
The garden products sector has seen a sharp rise in value, increasing by 122% since 2001, from €199 million to €441 million. DIY stores are also enjoying strong productivity, with sales reaching €147 million in the past year. Purchasing peaks in most amenity categories during the months April to June.
This research coincides with the 21st anniversary of the Kildare Growers Trade Show. The show has grown to accommodate over 185 exhibiting companies from home and abroad and is visited annually by over 5000 trade experts. It is the only show of its kind in Ireland and is recognised internationally as the flagship of the Irish ornamental and amenity nursery-stock industry.