| September 7, Vancouver, Canada: The 50th Congress of the International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) began. Over 175 delegates from around the world were ready to discover what Canada has to offer. Representatives spent 5 days touring the Canadian retail industry.
Those of us who attended the past few Congresses may be aware that Canadian Garden Centres are not like the ones we see in South Africa, Spain or France. Canadian centres are smaller, but it doesn’t mean they have less to show. The limited space means retailers have to make sure they make the most out of the square footage and the competitive market forces them to make a lasting impression on every customer. Delegates were also given a taste of Canada by visiting tourism places like the Capilano Suspension Bridge, the Vancouver Aquarium (one of the top 5 in the world), Stanley Park, the Royal BC Museum, etc.
Throughout the week, the international delegates met specialised retailers that respond to particular niche markets. Through expertise, personal service and unique flavours, Canadian retailers know how to attract and keep a dedicated clientele. IGCA Delegates observed old buildings that were revamped into trendy shops appealing to the most discerning crowds.
Congress participants were blown away by world-renowned attractions such as Butchart Gardens and Minter Gardens, that bring horticulture to the next level while keeping it accessible to everyone. Some award-winning displays made quite an impression and the colour merchandising skills got visitors thinking. Some of the delegates even went for a swim in the first North American OASE swim pond. And that’s not the only place they saw water as Canadians are well versed in water gardening. Most, if not all, of the centres visited had water features on display and many had integrated them in their landscape to give ideas to their customers while creating an inviting shopping environment. Other areas of expertise in Canada are container gardening and hanging baskets; delegates could not believe the size of some of those baskets!
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The Canadians showed that they care: care about the environment, the culture and care about family. Garden Centres in Canada have embraced the green movement. They promote native plants, green initiatives and environment-friendly products and practices. They work with local artists and reach out to their communities. Some centres expose and sell crafts, sculptures and paintings; others offer culinary classes and fashion shows. They encourage the whole family to come to the Garden Centres. It’s more than just shopping, it’s a destination. Whether you want to have a nice chat over coffee or want to entertain the kids (or even the adults!) with a train ride, a Garden Centre is the place to go.
The 50th IGCA Congress was a success, both international delegates and hosts learned a great deal. Special thanks to Ball Horticultural, OASE, Monrovia Nursery, ANLA and Northwest Landscape Supply for their wonderful support. Don’t miss the next Congress, September 13-19 2009, Manchester, UK.
Lydia Couture-Comtois, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association
www.gardencentresaust.com.au
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