HTA reports record sales of gift vouchers

Britain could be blooming more than usual this summer, if statistics from the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) are any indication of gardenings increasing popularity.

The organisation noted a 60 per cent year-on-year increase in sales of National Garden Gift Vouchers (NGGV) during March.

It represents a 13 per cent increase on the previous record sales figure for the third month of the year.

The HTA had been promoting NGGVs in the lead up to Mothers Day using a range of media formats, including the Alan Titchmarsh Show.

Marketing manager David Butler explained the vouchers are one of the best-selling products in garden centres during spring.

"The strong sales for March exceed previous levels and provide a good indicator that garden centre trade has picked up over the last couple of weeks," he said.

Mr Butler added he expects a further boost in sales in the run up to Easter.

The Royal Horticultural Society recently announced its partnership with the governments We Will If You Will campaign, aimed at getting people growing and eating healthy food.