As the Glee exhibition gears up to mark the Glee 50th anniversary at the core of the garden retail sector, the organising team seeks your input. Over the past five decades, Glee has witnessed numerous exhibitors grace its halls, unveiling countless new products since its modest inception in 1974. To honour the innovation and enthusiasm that have defined Glee and the wider garden centre market over this time, the quest is on to identify the individuals and products that have propelled the most significant changes.
From champions of sustainability to influencers expanding the reach of horticulture, a diverse array of individuals have made their mark on the garden retail world. Whether as suppliers, retailers, industry experts, or multifaceted contributors, all have played a crucial role in Glee’s evolution, preserving gardening as one of the nation’s most cherished pastimes.
Alternatively, cherished memories of Glee might revolve around a larger-than-life figure. These individuals could be central characters in Glee’s annals, evoking countless smiles, offering friendly advice, and sparking fond reminiscences for those who encountered them while traversing the aisles of past shows.
Similarly, gardening products have ushered in pivotal moments of transformation, from addressing longstanding issues to introducing innovative bestsellers, initiating vital discussions about gardening’s environmental impact, or leveraging technology to enhance accessibility for modern consumers. Throughout the past half-century, numerous hero products have emerged.
Now is the opportunity for Glee’s audience to cast their votes for their own heroes, celebrating the individuals and products they believe have left the most indelible mark on Glee’s trajectory and that of the garden retail sector.
How to Vote:
In collaboration with Glee’s media partner, Garden Trade News, nominations will officially commence via this weekend’s GTN Xtra and through www.gardentradenews.co.uk. The deadline for nominations is 31st May.
Following the nominations phase, a panel of judges will compile a shortlist of nominees and products, allowing readers of GTN Xtra to cast their final votes throughout June.
The winners will be unveiled at Glee 2024, the milestone 50th edition of the event, scheduled from Tuesday, 10th September, to Thursday, 12th September, at the NEC in Birmingham.
Matthew Mein, Event Director at Glee, said: “The gardening world has changed so much from the early 70s, with each decade ringing in exciting new trends and innovation. Throughout all of this, Glee has maintained a constant presence, year-after-year providing a place where the garden retail sector can come together to inspire, network and educate. Now, we want to celebrate those who have left a mark in a fun and reflective look back on Glee’s half-century. We’re excited to see the nominations, find out the eventual winners, and are prepared for a tidal wave of nostalgia and questionable haircuts!”
Find out more
Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting, please visit www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.