September 15, 2013
As a retailer, your goal is to grow your business. One of the best methods to achieve that goal is through face-to-face conversations. Garden and Floral Expo 2013 is the place for unmatched networking, professional development, idea sharing and the inspiration needed to compete in the new world of retail.

If you have inventory needs that need to be filled, you’re looking for unique products to differentiate your stores from competitors or big box stores, or see what retail trends are in the future, then you need to attend Landscape Ontario’s Garden and Floral Expo at the Toronto Congress Centre, North Building on Oct. 23 and 24.

This horticulture and floriculture event is where year after year Canada’s savviest retailers gather to compare products, make inventory choices, and learn about trends from top-notch international retailers. It offers the best opportunity to meet with hundreds of suppliers in two action-packed days.

This year Expo will feature close to 200 illuminated vendor displays showcasing innovative plants and products. Some of the highlights include the New Product Showcase that will offer an inspiring display of innovative product; Aisle 500 that will demonstrate creative design concepts to try in-store; the very-popular Plant ID Challenge; and Destination Inspiration Theatre.

It’s a great opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s best designers, retailers and florists who are on hand to share ideas, trends and advice that will help grow your business.

This year, Expo opens its doors at 9 a.m. to an exciting line-up of speakers, workshops, awards presentations and, of course, the trade show featuring top industry suppliers.

The Garden Centre Group is excited to announce that one of Canada’s most articulate and knowledgeable horticulturists Jim Hole, from Hole’s Greenhouses and Gardens in Alberta, is the keynote speaker. Well-known for his business savvy, he is ardent about plants, conservation, the environment and business.

A workshop on Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB) will be hosted by the Interior Plantscape Sector Group. Those attending this session will be eligible for GPGB CEUs. It is the only opportunity in 2013 within Canada.
An illustrious panel of retail industry leaders and innovators will headline Top Ten Tips. Karl Stensson, president of Sheridan Nurseries, will lead the panel.

Garden writers will return to Expo for their annual Connect Event. The meeting concludes with a visit to the trade show floor. Vendors, showcasing their latest products and services, have the opportunity to have their products spotted by the writers for coverage in publications, blogs and other communication media.

A full day Connecting Educators Summit is aimed at horticultural educators and affiliated professionals. The event will take place Oct. 22.

Terry Childs, chair of Landscape Ontario’s Show Committee, promises that attending Garden and Floral Expo will help retailers attain business goals and prosperity. “Networking is the best way for our members to grow their business. But Expo is much more than that. We add the extras, such as seminars, workshops, suppliers and social events.” says Childs. “It’s a great opportunity to meet many suppliers under one roof to discuss upcoming needs.”

To register for Garden and Floral Expo or one of its associated events, visit www.loexpo.ca.  

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Expo provides lots of opportunities for attendees to have face-to-face conversations with suppliers, industry experts and peers.

Jim Hole speaks at a lunch time session at Expo on Oct. 23.