A People-Powered Garden Retail Experience
The 2025 edition of the International Garden Centre Association’s annual Congress brought 180 industry delegates from around the world for six days in Cape Town, South Africa. During the October 19–25 congress, attendees visited 10 garden centres, explored Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, toured a cut-flower estate, enjoyed nature walks, and experienced incredible hospitality, cuisine, and culture.
A big takeaway from the tour by much of the Congress’s big Canadian delegation was the difference that labour factors into garden centre operations in South Africa. With an unemployment rate of around 40 percent and a minimum wage of about $2.25 CAD per hour, Cape Town area garden centres are staffed by large, enthusiastic teams. This creates vibrant and friendly, people-powered retail environments that support daily operations.
“The garden centres we visited were of an even higher calibre than I had expected. They’re neat, clean and maintained to an impressive standard, with outstanding plant quality throughout,” said Michael Van Dongen, owner of Van Dongen’s Garden Centre in Ontario. “Every team we met radiated pride in their work and companies. The level of professionalism and genuine enthusiasm from everyone, regardless of position, was remarkable. It was inspiring to witness, and I can honestly say I've never experienced better service in a garden centre anywhere.”
“Store signage and plant merchandising were also consistently strong across all locations,” noted Amanda Trewarn, owner of Cedar Rim Nursery in British Columbia. “The creativity, clarity and attention to detail were excellent and we came home with plenty of fresh ideas that we're excited to implement in our own store.”
That sentiment was echoed by Leanne Johnston, who is eager to bring back tips and inspiration to her Gardenworks locations in BC.
“The South African garden centre teams were remarkable. Johnston said. “So genuine, friendly and welcoming. Absolutely stunning garden centres and botanical gardens.”
A heartfelt thank-you to IGCA and our South African hosts for their warm hospitality and outstanding program. Next year’s IGCA Congress will be hosted in Munich, Germany.
