The garden industry came together in style this evening for the sold-out 2025 GIMA Awards, held at the magnificent Celtic Manor Resort in Newport. The night was a true celebration of creativity, innovation, and dedication, as the industry’s leading suppliers and manufacturers were recognised for their outstanding achievements over the past year.
Across 18 categories, winners were chosen for their exceptional products, initiatives, and contributions to the ever-evolving world of garden retail. This year’s judging panel brought together voices from across the sector, combining national and independent retail experience with media insight and expert perspective. Sarah White of Hillier Garden Centre, Bradley Piziura from B&Q, Anthony Gould from Goulds and Choice Marketing, and Casey Warwick from Decco offered valuable viewpoints from both independent and national operations. Representing leading independents, Katrine Taylor of Fron Goch Garden Centre and Helen Lloyd from Stratford & Warwick Garden Centres brought further depth to the panel, alongside Jo Iddon of QVC and Adam Szabo of Charlies Stores. Completing the well-rounded group of judges, Trevor Pfeiffer, editor of Garden Trade News, and Kim Stoddart, editor of Amateur Gardening, added an editorial eye for excellence.
Helping to kick off the evening’s celebrations in style was Patrick Kielty, whose warmth, humour, and sharp wit set the perfect tone for a night of celebration. His quick-fire energy and easy rapport with the audience made for a lively and memorable start to proceedings.
Reflecting on the evening, GIMA Director Vicky Nuttall said: “Tonight has been a fantastic celebration of everything that makes our industry so special. The room has been buzzing with excitement, and our winners truly reflect the creativity, commitment, and forward thinking that continue to drive garden retail forward.
“Huge thanks go to our brilliant judges, our generous sponsors, and of course to everyone who entered this year’s awards. It’s been another unforgettable night for GIMA and for the industry as a whole.”
GIMA AWARDS 2025 – THE WINNERS
One of the most coveted accolades is the GIMA Sword of Excellence, and this year saw GARDENA UK take home the title thanks to its AquaBloom L, which utilises intuitive Micro-Drip technology to keep up to 30 plants thriving without the need for an outside tap or power source. Commenting on the product, the judges said: “This really is a winner all round. It’s easy to use, doesn’t require power or even a tap, and offers a water-efficient solution for today’s busy gardener.”
The GCA Supplier of the Year Award underwent a major change for 2025, splitting the category to recognise excellence across businesses of different sizes – one for large businesses and another for small to medium suppliers. Finalists in the Large Business category were Smart Garden Products and Westland, while To Make a Difference Ltd (M.A.D) was recognised in the Small to Medium Business category.
This year, Woodlodge Products claimed the title of ‘Large Business’ Supplier of the Year, while Meadow View Stone was named ‘Small to Medium Business’ Supplier of the Year. Praising Woodlodge, the judges highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to excellence, commenting: “Consistently excellent service over 20 years. From sales and merchandising to the accounts team, we have nothing but praise for this company.”
Meanwhile, Meadow View Stone was recognised for its collaborative approach and outstanding performance, with judges noting: “Impeccable performance and teamwork. Sharing best practices and new display initiatives. Prompt delivery of quality products and excellent POS.”
Next on the awards roster was the Gardenex Export Achievement Award, which this year went to Smart Garden Products, who pipped Phoenox Textiles and Pelsis Doff to the post. Smart Garden was selected for its exceptional European investment and growth, particularly within France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Spain. The judges said: “We were extremely impressed with Smart Garden Products’ willingness to surge forward with a change in strategy for Europe, which sees them making significant investment into that market. This has delivered immediate results, with substantial forecast revenue increases for 2026 and beyond.”
When it came to sustainability, there was only one winner for the judges – Elho. They commented: “At last, a good-looking, well-designed and affordable home composter with excellent sustainable credentials too. Well done, Elho!” Crafted from 100% recycled plastic and fully recyclable, the Elho Composter 200L promotes circular living by turning organic waste into valuable compost – reducing landfill and enriching soil naturally.
A ‘Sustainability Champion’ was also selected within each category (where relevant), celebrating the different ways sustainable solutions are being brought to market.
Finally, the brand-new Associate of the Year accolade celebrated outstanding contributions from industry partners, as voted for by GIMA members. The inaugural shortlist included Hornby George PR, CM Ventures, Wright Obara, MorePeople, and Aspin – with Hornby George PR taking home the title for their exceptional support, collaboration, and commitment to GIMA and its members.
GIMA AWARDS 2025 – PRODUCT AWARDS
Garden Care – sponsored by Decco
Winner: Vitax – Dahlia Feeder
Finalists: Empathy Plantworks, Empathy Bioactive Compost Improver; Evergreen Garden Care – New Miracle-Gro Lawn Care Range; Westland – Premium Pine Bark; Westland – Mini Bale 25L compost range
Category Sustainability Champion: Empathy Plantworks, Empathy Bioactive Compost Improver
About the winner: A high potash feed with magnesium, iron and trace elements and seaweed for the ideal balance of growing and flowering dahlias.
What the judges said: “Clear concise and vibrant packaging, for an on-trend product. It really hits the mark!”
Growing Planting Equipment & Sundries
Winner: GARDENA UK – Gardena AquaBloom L
Finalists: Westland – Flopro Cobra Expanding Hose 15m/25m; Elho – Green Basics Composter 200L; GARDENA UK – AquaPrecise – solar powered irrigation system; GARDENA UK – Dual Hose Box 25m
Category Sustainability Champion: Elho – Green Basics Composter 200L
About the winner: With 14 expert-designed watering schedules, the AquaBloom L makes it easy for gardeners to keep plants thriving – simply place it in a sunny spot and ensure the reservoir is full. Its Micro-Drip system delivers water directly to the roots – promoting healthy growth and efficient water use. Thanks to patented ‘Quick&Easy’ technology, installation takes just five simple steps – and can be adjusted at any time.
What the judges said: “Innovative solution and a great use of technology for today’s water conscious gardeners.”
Garden Tools, Machinery & Implements – sponsored by Toolbank
Winner: GARDENA UK – StarCut Pro L Set, Bypass Cut, Telescopic Pruning Lopper with Saw and Adapter
Finalists: Burgon & Ball – Burgon & Ball BoronGreen® RHS-endorsed gardening tools; Westland – The Kent & Stowe Capability Digging Spade; Spear & Jackson – Kew Gardens Collection 6″ Folding Garden Saw; GARDENA UK – Gardena PremiumCut Pro Secateurs Set 12250-20, 1225-20, 12252-20
Category Sustainability Champion: Burgon & Ball – Burgon & Ball BoronGreen® RHS-endorsed gardening tools
About the winner: The ultra-light, ergonomic StarCut Pro Set makes pruning high branches effortless – reaching up to 6 m with ease. Its enclosed pulling mechanism prevents tangling, while high-quality powder-coated blades deliver clean, healthy cuts. A tiltable cutting head ensures precision in awkward spots, and an integrated hook allows branches to be safely brought down. The set also includes an adapter and combi-system saw for tackling thicker branches without the need for an additional tool.
What the judges said: “Easy to use with an amazing range of adjustments on the cutting head.”
Outdoor Leisure – sponsored by LOFA
Winner: Woodlodge – Eco Cushions
Finalists: Woodlodge – Costa Rica 4 Seat Round Dining Set & Emperor parasol; Homefire – Homefire Coffee Briquettes; Eco Fuego – El Campo Fire Pit; Maze – Deluxe Linear Outdoor Kitchen
Category Sustainability Champion: Woodlodge – Eco Cushions
About the winner: Woodlodge Eco Cushions combine comfort with sustainability – each one crafted from eco-friendly fabric made using recycled 500 ml plastic bottles. Water-repellent and durable, they’re perfect for outdoor living, with every label proudly showing the exact number of bottles saved from landfill.
What the judges said: “’Great designs combined with a sustainable story has created a range which has sold incredibly well.”
Plants, Seeds & Bulbs
Winner: Mr Fothergill’s Seeds – DT Brown Vegetable Seeds Range
Finalists: Mr Fothergill’s Seeds – Johnsons Cut Flower Seed Range; Johnsons Lawn Seed – Nature’s Lawn
Category Sustainability Champion: Johnsons Lawn Seed – Nature’s Lawn
About the winner: The D.T. Brown Vegetable Seed Range features 120 varieties of herbs and vegetables presented across two compact display stands, designed to inspire cooking enthusiasts to grow their own for unbeatable freshness and flavour. Each seed packet pairs a vibrant image of the mature crop with a culinary shot showing it in use – celebrating the joy of home-grown produce from garden to plate.
What the judges said: “Great packaging and design creating an emotive connection with the consumer which makes vegetable growing accessible to all.”
Garden Landscaping
Winner: Keter – Keter Potting Shed
Finalists: Meadow View Stone – Flexi Fix Edging in Corten Steel, Anthracite and Black; Meadow View Stone – Porcelain Stepping Stones; Altico Garden Products – British Nature Stepping Stones; Altico Garden Products – British Wildlife Stepping Stones;
Category Sustainability Champion: Keter – Keter Potting Shed
About the winner: The Keter Potting Shed is more than just a storage space – it’s a dedicated, light-filled workspace designed for creativity and all kinds of hobbies. Its innovative hybrid roof combines a translucent section that lets in natural sunlight with an opaque section that shields plants and tools from the elements. Five opening windows and two fixed corner windows ensure excellent ventilation, while two 160 cm shelves maximise space for tools, pots, and projects.
What the judges said: “Feels modern, accessible, functional and has great quality finish. Their additional commitment to sustainability is the icing on the cake!”
Garden Clothing & Gifts
Winner: Primeur – Bree Merryn Doormat Collection
Finalists: EP Barrus – Dragonfly Garden & Gifting range; Burgon & Ball – Burgon & Ball Collector Hand Tools; LBC (Ultralight) Boots – ULTRALIGHT Olive Chelsea Boots; Deco-Pak – Pebble Kind
Category Sustainability Champion: Primeur – Mighty Mats Eco Doormat Collection
About the winner: The Bree Merryn Doormat Collection blends art, practicality, and sustainability – transforming a household essential into a beautiful, giftable piece. Created in collaboration between Primeur and Yorkshire wildlife artist Bree Merryn, the range features printed washable doormats, barrier matting, and utility boot trays made from recycled materials. Each design showcases Bree’s distinctive, lifelike animal portraits, capturing their warmth and personality with remarkable detail. Combining fine art with functional design, this exclusive collection has become a gifting favourite and repeat bestseller, bringing charm and character to every doorstep.
What the judges said: “’Strong designs with a clear message from a company with great all round eco credentials.”
Pet Care, Aquatics & Wild Bird Care
Winner: FeatherSnap (Reveal HoldCo) – FeatherSnap – the smart, solar powered bird feeder
Finalists: Smart Garden Products – Titan 4-Way Garden Hanger; Westland – Peckish Woodland Feast Multi Feeder; SealStop – SealStop valve; CJ Wildlife – Penn 2-in-1 Bird Feeder
Category Sustainability Champion: SealStop – SealStop valve
About the winner: FeatherSnap is a smart, solar-powered bird feeder that lets users enjoy wildlife up close through cutting-edge technology. Featuring a 4MP camera with a removable lithium-ion battery, it captures high-quality photos and videos that are instantly transmitted to an intuitive mobile app via a low-latency server – with the option to watch live through the built-in feed function. Designed for convenience and versatility, FeatherSnap includes twin solar panels to maintain battery power, dual feed bins for different seed types to attract a wider variety of birds, an easy-access hinged roof for quick refilling, and an adjustable twin perch to suit visitors of all sizes.
What the judges said: “A serious product for the serious birdwatcher. This well executed product takes bird feeding to whole other level.”
Garden Lighting, Water Features & Ornamentation
Winner: Altico – Whirlpool Water Feature
Finalists: Treadstone – Orchard Garden Sculptures; Smart Garden Products – Galaxy Festoon Firefly String Lights; L V Bespoke – Glass & Steel Garden Feature Stakes Collection; Smart Garden Products – Firefly DécorCan; Altico Garden Products – Courtyard Water Feature
Category Sustainability Champion: L V Bespoke – Glass & Steel Garden Feature Stakes Collection
About the winner: The Whirlpool Water Feature is an innovative centrepiece showcasing a mesmerising vortex effect enhanced by integrated LED lighting for a striking, modern display. Embossed tropical leaf detailing in soft grey-green tones with white accents adds an elegant, contemporary touch. Launching for the 2025 season following its Glee 2024 preview, it’s featured in Altico’s 2025 catalogue with retail rollout from January.
What the judges said: “Great to see something so unique in this category – very mesmerising and a beautiful finish.”
Decorative Pots & Planters
Winner: Woodlodge – Liberty
Finalists: Keter – Keter Signature Planters and Elevated Bed Family; Primeur – Garden Central Value Planters; Strata Products – Amalfi Planters; Keter – Keter Tetra Pak Medium Planter
Category Sustainability Champion: Woodlodge – Liberty
About the winner: The Liberty Collection combines premium design with sustainability, offering lightweight pots that feature a high-end glazed ceramic look – perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Crafted from 100% recycled materials and fully recyclable, including the packaging, these pots deliver eco-conscious style without compromise.
What the judges said: “’Love the recycled/recyclable story and quality. Robust and lightweight, great designs and affordably priced.”
GIMA AWARDS 2025 – MARKETING AWARDS
Best Point of Sale Material
Winner: Meadow View Stone – Aggregates and Paving POS with Augmented Reality
Finalists: Elho – Green Basics Composter Promo Kit; The Solar Centre – New Mushroom Display; Westland – Peckish All In One Display; GARDENA UK – Dual Hose Box POS;
Category Sustainability Champion: Elho – Green Basics Composter Promo Kit
About the winner: The Aggregate and Paving POS offers a tactile, immersive experience with real chipping samples and high-res lifestyle imagery, helping customers see, touch, and envision products in their gardens. QR codes enable AR visualisations, while “premium washed” and “100% recycled bag” icons emphasise quality and sustainability.
What the judges said: “Very impactful point of sale with easy and instant visualisation that brings it to life for the customer.”
Best Marketing Campaign
Winner: Elho – Smart Pebble Multi-Channel Marketing Campaign
Finalists: Meadow View Stone – Augmented Reality Customer Visualiser; Evergreen Garden Care – ‘BRINGING GARDENS TO LIFE’ campaign; Fandango Fire Tools – Kindling Cracker™ Carefully Curated Use Generated Content (UGC) campaign; Webb Power Tools – Create Your Perfect Garden from Webb Garden Power
About the winner: The Smart Pebble launch combined data-driven insights with rich visuals to showcase its AI-powered features and consumer appeal. A cohesive omni-channel campaign spanned in-store POS, influencer-led social media, and an educational video to simplify smart plant care. Integrated with the Elho app, it delivered real-time care tips and a seamless journey from shelf to soil.
What the judges said: “Really engaging, fun to watch and really brought the product to life. It held our attention throughout.”
