Glee 2025 gathers pace with record exhibitor growth
Glee 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most significant editions of the UK’s premier garden retail trade show, taking place 16–18 September at the NEC Birmingham. With 91% of the floorplan already sold and over 360 exhibitors confirmed, the event continues to build strong momentum, on track to host more than 400 brands.
This year’s show sees a surge in new participation, with over 200 first-time exhibitors—already surpassing 2024’s final count. Exhibitor retention remains high, and visitor registrations are up year-on-year, confirming Glee’s position as the go-to platform for suppliers and retailers across the garden, outdoor living, and home lifestyle sectors.
A revised layout across Halls 8–12 will feature several new attractions, including the New Buyers Zone, the New Product Showcase, and The Hive, a content hub hosting talks from leaders at Dobbies, British Garden Centres, Blue Diamond, and Hillier. GCA will also have a central presence, offering added value for members and buyers alike.
Food and drink take centre stage this year with the launch of Food @ Glee—a new exhibitor zone and content programme targeting the fast-growing catering and food retail categories within garden centres. Fire, Grill & Chill also returns, boosting the show’s lifestyle appeal.
Key product categories showing growth include core gardening, garden care, and landscaping—reflecting renewed consumer investment in outdoor projects. Over 350 innovations are expected in the New Product Showcase, giving buyers a clear line of sight to trends and opportunities.
Returning exhibitors include VegTrug, Garland, EP Barrus, and Strata Garden Products, alongside notable expansions from GrowMore, Bonningtons, and Apac. The GIMA Business Village also reaches record size with over 50 exhibitors. With business networking, insight-led content, and major brands confirmed, Glee 2025 is set to deliver critical value for garden retail professionals.