As the first dedicated garden retail exhibition to make its in-person return post-lockdown, Glee (14th – 16th September, NEC Birmingham) has an important role to play.
From networking and educating, to inspiring retailers and suppliers alike, this year’s event will be a highly anticipated showcase of the newest and most exciting innovations that the garden sector has to offer ahead of the 2022 season.
Exhibitors confirmed for Glee 2021 include returning brands, such as Hozelock, Ivyline, Woodlodge, DLF Seeds, Zest 4 Leisure, Taylors Bulbs, Traeger Grills, The Solar Centre, Seedball, Durston Garden Products, Fallen Fruits, Burgon & Ball, Deco-Pak, Creative Products, Meadow View Stone, Kaemingk, Jardinopia, Laurica Plants and Primeur. New exhibitors joining the roster in 2021 will include Goodchaps, Collarways, Leon Boots, The Edible Gang, Teal International, Black & Stainless-Steel Creative Metalworks and George Rye & Sons.
The Glee team acknowledge that the positivity surrounding the exhibition’s return is only possible thanks to the ongoing work that is being undertaken behind the scenes to ensure that Glee can throw open its doors safely and securely. Matthew Mein, Glee Event Director explains: “Whilst many of our retailers have remarked that being at the coalface throughout Covid has meant that they are more than comfortable with returning to live events, we appreciate that this is not the case for everyone. I’d like to take this opportunity to reassure everyone that we are going above and beyond to ensure that we will be reopening Glee as safely and securely as possible.
“We are working closely in consultation with the NEC, and the AEO (Association of Event Organisers) in order to confirm that we work within the government guidelines for reopening and will continue to revise these guidelines as the September timeline approaches. The health and safety of everyone involved with Glee – from the stand builders to exhibitors, from visitors to our own Glee team and everyone in between – is our number one priority.
“Everyone is able to access our Safe and Secure guidelines, which covers everything from pre-event to onsite guidance regarding hygiene, stand activity and venue facilities, and advice for a safe end to the show include breakdown and track and trace. All this info is accessible via www.gleebirmingham.com/the-community/safe-secure. The team also remain available to discuss all elements of our reopening plans with the Glee community.
“For now, it just leaves me to say how pleased we are to bring the industry back together under one roof for the first time since 2019. The continued support of the sector has been incredible, and it’s so great to be in conversation with retailers and exhibitors regarding their intentions for the event. As always, the team and I will be working tirelessly to build an exhibition that works hard, inspires and educates. We can’t wait to see you all in September.”
