The Garden Centre Association (GCA) has announced the national winners of its Gisela Graham-sponsored annual Christmas competition.
Bents came a starry first in the Destination Garden Centre category, Garson’s Titchfield shone in the Garden Centre section, and Brimsmore Gardens in Somerset sparkled in the Local Garden Centre category.
GCA Inspector Alyson Haywood, who judged the competition with fellow GCA Inspector Peter Walker, said: “It was a pleasure to return to the role of judge for the 2025 Christmas competition sponsored by Gisela Graham. This year’s winning centres showed an exceptional level of creativity and festive brilliance nationwide. From roadside entrances glowing with twinkling lights, to immersive journeys filled with scent, storytelling, and spectacular displays, participants delivered some of the most magical retail experiences to date.”
“What a wonderful start to the Christmas countdown this competition is. I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the brilliant members who starred in our Christmas display competition this year and to our wonderful sponsor, Gisela Graham”
He added: “There were beautifully themed departments, exquisitely dressed trees, and inspired use of height, light and theatre. Festive touches reached every corner – from plants and gifts to food halls and clothing – with many centres excelling in cross-merchandising, sustainable messaging and that all-important ‘stock to show and stock to go’ execution. It was wonderful to see the industry bursting with innovation and festive passion – delivering joyful and immersive experiences that inspire customers and set a dazzling benchmark for Christmas retail.”
GCA CEO Peter Burks commented: “What a wonderful start to the Christmas countdown this competition is. I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the brilliant members who starred in our Christmas display competition this year and to our wonderful sponsor, Gisela Graham. These garden centres have been judged to have the best festive displays in the country by our organisation and will receive their awards at our special 60th anniversary year Annual Conference in January.
“Well done to the team at Bents, who were the star on top of the tree in the Destination Garden Centre (DGC) category nationally. Also, congratulations to Garson’s Titchfield, who were our super shiny national winners in the Garden Centre section this year, and well done to Brimsmore Gardens, part of The Gardens Group, who were crowned our winner in the Local Garden Centre category.
“These centres, along with our other highly deserving runners-up, are well worth a visit this December. It’s a great opportunity for members to gather fresh inspiration and best-practice ideas to take forward into 2026.”
He added: “Each entry was evaluated on overall ambience, creativity, product range, layout flow, and tidiness, with customer service also taken into account. This year’s participants delivered truly outstanding displays, showcasing remarkable flair and imagination.”
