GIMA has confirmed an expanded line-up of industry speakers for its 2026 Day Conference and Annual General Meeting, taking place on Thursday 26th March at Stratford Manor Hotel. The day will bring together leading voices from across the garden retail supply chain to explore ‘The Future of the Supply Chain for Garden Products’.
Set against a backdrop of consolidation in the retail distribution channel, intensifying commercial pressures, and the shifting inventory risk towards suppliers, the conference will unite suppliers, wholesalers, distributors, agents, logistics specialists and retailers for a day of insight, discussion and networking focused on the future of the sector.
Industry insight from across the supply chain
The newly confirmed programme brings together perspectives from across the industry, with contributions from:
- Mark Farnsworth, Yorkshire Garden Centres – offering a retailer’s view on how supply chain decisions are being shaped at garden centre level
- Steve Collinge, retail analyst and industry commentator – hosting a session examining the growing role of online marketplaces
- Stax Trade Centres, Toolbank and Rhenus Logistics – representing key voices from wholesale, distribution and logistics
Together with GIMA members themselves, these speakers will form part of a series of interactive panel discussions designed to explore the realities facing suppliers today and the trends shaping the future.
Topics under discussion will include the evolving role of wholesalers, the growing influence of online marketplaces, the future shape of supplier businesses, and how collaboration across the supply chain can help the sector navigate ongoing change.
A platform for honest discussion
By bringing together multiple perspectives from across the supply chain, the conference will offer delegates the opportunity to hear practical insight, honest experiences and forward-looking views on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
Delegates will also benefit from valuable networking time with fellow GIMA members, industry experts and supply chain partners, creating space for meaningful conversations and new connections.
The day will begin with the GIMA Annual General Meeting, open exclusively to fully paid-up members, where the association will confirm new Council members and provide updates on the organisation’s ongoing work.
Talking ahead of the event, Vicky Nuttall, Director of GIMA, said: “By bringing the industry together around one table, the GIMA Day Conference provides an important opportunity to share insight, challenge thinking and encourage collaboration. As supply chains continue to evolve, these conversations are more important than ever, and we look forward to welcoming members and guests in March.
“We must also say a big thank you to our headline sponsors, Toucan Sales Analytics and CRM Software, one of our newest Associate Members. Their support helps make events like this possible, ensuring our members benefit from valuable industry insight, meaningful discussion and the opportunity to strengthen connections across the supply chain.”
Book now
With places limited, GIMA is encouraging members and industry professionals to secure their place now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of the garden products supply chain.
The event includes a full conference programme alongside buffet lunch and refreshments, offering a full day of learning and networking.
