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The Garden Industry Manufacturers' Association (GIMA) has announced the launch of Gardenex, a dedicated international trade service designed to strengthen commercial connections and create new opportunities for businesses operating across the global garden sector.
Designed to complement GIMA's existing programme of member services, Gardenex will provide a platform for businesses looking to explore new markets, build valuable partnerships and engage with buyers and suppliers from around the world
The launch comes at a time when international engagement is becoming increasingly important across the garden sector. Recent initiatives, including international Buyer Connect events with organisations such as BOL, Walmart and Arrett have highlighted growing demand for opportunities that help businesses connect with new markets and trading partners.
Led by international trade specialist Eleanor Wigram, who brings more than 25 years of experience supporting businesses in international markets, the Gardenex International Trade Service of GIMA will provide practical guidance, market insight and valuable introductions, helping businesses navigate the complexities of international trade with confidence.
Martin Ward, Director of GIMA, said: "The launch of Gardenex represents an important expansion of our member offering and our commitment to supporting international business development across the garden sector. Through Gardenex, we are creating a platform that helps businesses make connections, identify opportunities and access the support they need to trade successfully in an increasingly global marketplace.
"This is about creating value for members, strengthening international relationships and ensuring the garden industry remains visible, competitive and connected worldwide."
Eleanor Wigram added: "The opportunities for growth through international trade are significant, but success often depends on having access to the right knowledge, contacts and support network. That's where Gardenex - International Trade Service of GIMA can make a real difference.
"Our role is to help businesses build meaningful relationships, open doors to new opportunities and navigate international markets with greater confidence, regardless of where they are on their growth journey."
Through Gardenex members will benefit from a growing range of international trade support services designed to help businesses explore new markets, build valuable connections and identify opportunities for growth across both import and export. Support will include access to specialist expertise, market insight, buyer engagement opportunities and practical guidance, helping businesses navigate international trade with greater confidence.
Beyond supporting businesses looking to develop international trade opportunities, Gardenex – International Trade Service of GIMA, will also act as a gateway for overseas buyers seeking innovative products, trusted suppliers and new commercial partnerships. Through tailored introductions, networking opportunities and access to key industry information, the service will help strengthen commercial relationships and facilitate new business opportunities across international markets.
One of the first initiatives under Gardenex will be a dedicated Meet the Buyer event with leading Canadian retailer Lee Valley, taking place on 16th July 2026.
Established in 1978, Lee Valley is a family-owned business with a strong reputation for quality, operating a successful mail-order and ecommerce business alongside 19 premium retail stores across Canada, from British Columbia to Nova Scotia. With an established track record of sourcing products internationally, the business is actively seeking innovative new suppliers and product opportunities.
The event will provide GIMA members with a unique opportunity to engage directly with key decision-makers, explore potential opportunities and gain valuable insight into the Canadian market.
Businesses interested in participating should register their interest by emailing International@gima.org.uk.
The long-standing strategic partnership between GIMA and Glee continues to go from strength to strength, with Gardenex set to manage and host the International Buyers Lounge at Glee 2026.
Complementing the ever-growing GIMA Village, which will once again form a central hub within the exhibition, the International Buyers Lounge will provide a dedicated space for suppliers and buyers from across international markets to connect, explore opportunities and develop new commercial relationships. A programme of hosted meetings and networking opportunities will facilitate valuable introductions, helping businesses unlock new opportunities and build meaningful international connections.
The initiative forms part of a wider commitment from both GIMA and Glee to support growth across the garden sector, creating a platform where suppliers can engage directly with influential buyers from key global markets.
Matthew Mein, Event Director of Glee and Autumn Fair, said: "Our partnership with GIMA has always been focused on creating meaningful opportunities for exhibitors and visitors alike. The addition of Gardenex and the International Buyers Lounge further strengthens Glee's position as a gateway to both UK and international markets. By bringing together quality suppliers and buyers from around the world, we're helping to create the connections that drive long-term business growth and support the continued success of our industry."
Martin Ward added: "Glee has long been an important platform for bringing the industry together, and the International Buyers Lounge represents a natural extension of the work being undertaken through Gardenex - International Trade Service of GIMA. It creates an environment where meaningful conversations can take place, relationships can develop and new commercial opportunities can emerge for businesses and buyers from across the global garden industry."
With plans already underway for further international Buyer Connect events and the Gardenex International Buyers Lounge at Glee 2026, the launch of Gardenex – International Trade Service of GIMA marks a significant expansion of GIMA's support offering, creating new opportunities for businesses to connect, trade and grow within an increasingly international marketplace.
For more information about Gardenex and upcoming international trade opportunities, contact GIMA by visiting www.gima.org.uk, calling +44 (0)1959 581783 or emailing international@gima.org.uk
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