Culcita proves to be a big attraction during SOLEX
With over 40 years experience in the garden furniture industry, Culcita is committed to providing its customers with high quality products and great customer care. And the Irish company's range certainly impressed visitors to all three days of SOLEX at the NEC...
 With over 40 years experience in the garden furniture industry, Culcita is committed to providing its customers with high quality products and great customer care. And the Irish company's range certainly impressed visitors to all three days of SOLEX at the NEC.
The Culcitta collections have a variety of styles that suit all outdoor settings, and are based on design and comfort. From the elegant cast collection to the contemporary wood range, there is something for every need.
The ranges shown at SOLEX are ideal for dining alfresco. They will enhance any outdoor space, encouraging families and friends to gather round for a relaxing time. Culcita have a full range of products and accessories to make outdoor living a very satisfying and pleasant experience.
The Port Ross collection has been endorsed by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, who has chosen some of the Glenmore sets for his beautiful period Dunbrody Country House Hotel. This is a stylish and durable contemporary set that sits comfortably in any outdoor setting.
The Cast Aluminium range of outdoor furniture was a particular favourite with visitors to SOLEX
The durable cast aluminium ensures many long summers of enjoyment. The traditional designs fit well in any outdoor setting, and the brightly painted cast gives a garden that traditional garden party atmosphere.
The range includes a Bistro Set, lounger, 6 and 4 seater tables and chairs with luxurious cushions. The bright cushions contrast beautifully with the dark cast frames.
Culcita are very experienced in the manufacture and supply of cushions for the garden furniture industry. The fabrics are both fashionable and functional.
The extensive cushion ranges extend from basic seat pads to attractive designer cushions for quality garden furniture.
Culcita's managing director Paschal Bolger on the stand at SOLEX.
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Organiser Phil Gibbs has thanked all the exhibitors and visitors for making SOLEX an outstanding success, and said he hoped to see everyone again next year when the exhibition returns to the NEC Birmingham...
"We had three fabulous days in Hall 5 at the NEC Birmingham, and there was a continued buzz throughout the exhibition," said Phil. "We've received some fantastic comments, and the general concensus of opinion has been one of great satisfaction. "We've also taken on board some constructive comments on how we can make the exhibition even better next year. "So thank you for your contribution and we hope to see you again at the NEC in 2014." SOLEX 2015 will take place on July 6-8.
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Weber went skyward at Solex this year and invited visitors ‘on board’ with their innovative VIP airport lounge theme.
Aptly dressed ‘cabin crew’ and a well-stocked galley welcomed retailers, as Weber thanked them for their continued support and shared future plans for the new journey ahead. Laura Ashall, Director of Marketing at Weber-Stephen Products, said: “The stand this year was very different from previous years. We wanted to focus on the unrivalled service and great lifestyle of the Weber world. We kept product display to a minimum and honed in on our Big 5 for the coming year, allowing visitors to get to grips with our hero lines, ask questions and understand their key features.” The MasterTouch, Genesis 330, Spirit Premium 320, Q1400 and the Q3200, make up the Big 5. The MasterTouch has received a number of changes for 2015 to further enhance the cooking experience it offers. Another focus for the coming year is the range of rotisserie accessories. This easy and healthy way of cooking food is seeing a revival and Weber® has launched new accessories to include a rotisserie for all sizes of the Q® range as well as more specialised items for kebabs, bread and even potato wedges. With a move to London all set for September and the expansion of the Grill Academy™ in 2015, as well as the Summer Q campaign which represents the first stage of major investment for the brand in the UK, Weber is undeniably fired up and running on all cylinders. A comprehensive investment scheme will allow the brand to continue as innovators and market leaders in their field and as such, education and inspiration will continue to be at the forefront of Weber’s philosophy. A series of motivational programmes will be on offer for retailers over the coming months to provide hands on training, backed up by aspirational POS and marketing collaterals. This spirit of invention is at the heart of Weber and it is this that makes them the world’s number one barbecue brand. But it is not just about developing great barbecues. For Weberit’s also about getting together with family and friends, sharing some great food and creating special memories. The Weber Way is a lifestyle choice and their presence at Solex 2014 was intended to underline these key messages and the bright future that lies ahead. For more information on Weberproducts visit www.weberbbq.co.uk
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Inspired by 'the mystery and elegance of a Moroccan lantern', the Cabana from Alexander Rose is Diarmuid Gavin's first step into outdoor living product design.
The structure, consisting of four woven panels and a domed roof, offers shelter and privacy for small gatherings.
Diarmuid said he had relished the opportunity to design a structure around a lantern design that had always appealed to him. "When I saw the 'diamond style' weave produced by Alexander Rose, I knew it was absolutely ideal for it," he added.
The Cabana has round step-over entrances on three sides and a solid wall with a shelf on the fourth.
It is unashamedly upmarket, with an SRP of £5,950 for the single-skin version and £6,750 for the double-skin model.
Garden King Garden Centres posted this photo of centre manager Darren Sanders lounging around on the ‘Cabana’ from Diarmuid Gavin / Alexander Rose. The picture got over 180 likes on Garden King's Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/gardenkingnewhall
Hi-Rise Garden is a 'tree house for grown-ups'
Alexander Rose are going up in the world...with their new Hi-Rise Garden concept. The Hi-Rise, a sheltered garden space with an 'upstairs' , is the brainchild of Alan Morley, Alexander Rose's head of design. "I realised after I'd finished it that what inspired the design was my childhood love of tree houses," he told SOLEX Sun.
Alexander Rose are going up in the world...with their new Hi-Rise Garden concept, a centrepiece on their SOLEX stand.
The Hi-Rise, a sheltered garden space with an 'upstairs' , is the brainchild of Alan Morley, Alexander Rose's head of design. "I realised after I'd finished it that what inspired the design was my childhood love of tree houses," he told SOLEX Sun.
The design will appeal not only to the adventurous consumer searching for something on a whole new level but to those whose gardens are limited by a small footprint.
"It means they can use vertical space to create a useful ouside seating area." There is a a single-tier Lo-Rise, too. Both versions come with an eight-seater dining table. The parasol in the picture is an optional extra.
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Bellagio stockists at SOLEX were introduced to a new name for the brand - Supremo Leisure.
The Telford-based company believe the new ID will them a distinctive image in the market and and add clarity for the consumer. In addition to popular ranges that will be familiar to buyes, there are new collections and new colours, with a a major emphasis on the lounge dining.
The trend towards lounger dining – in effect, bringing indoor dining to the outdoor space without loss of convenience or comfort – has been accelerating and Supremo is gearing up to take advantage of it.
"We believe it's the future," a spokesman told SOLEX Sun, "and we're very excited about our new sets."
Prominent on the stand are the Eton resin weave lounge dining sets, with tables boasting an easy-clean glass stone inlay and weave in wintage white. Cushions can be ordered in a choice of colours.
New cushion colours were also unveiled for the contemporary Cannes aluminium range, which includes a hammock.
Above: MD Julian Windsor (left) and Steve Watson, who designed the new branding, drink a toast to Supremo.
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Norfolk Leisure win the Best Stand Award at SOLEX
Norfolk Leisure have been awarded the Best Stand accolade at SOLEX with the judges saying: "It's a very well put together stand and a lot of effort went into it. There are lots of features to catch the eye."
Norfolk Leisure have been awarded the Best Stand accolade at SOLEX with the judges saying: "It's a very well put together stand and a lot of effort went into it. There are lots of features to catch the eye."
Debbie Waudby, from Norfolk Leisure, said: "The whole team worked so hard on the stand, I'm so proud of them. This exhibition is so important to us, so to win this award is fantastic for everyone."
Highly commended were Kadai and Landmann.
All the stands at the show were judged by Howard Barnett, Jonathan Hindle and Diarmuid Gavin (pictured below).
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The Bambrella Alize has been voted Best Product Award at this year's SOLEX.
The impressive Alize pavilion range is the ultimate luxury space for entertaining and relaxing alike. For those wanting more privacy you can close the drapes on four sides.
The Alize is extremely robust and can be used as a permanent or temporary structure. The feet at the bottom of the postrs can be fixed to any surface using bolts, screw pegs or you can use the company's concrete filled bamboo bases.
The judges commented: "It's a great design and environmentally friendly."
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Home and garden writers often encourage their readers to 'get the look' - and now retailers can do it with helpful tips from Premier Decorations.
Their stand at SOLEX included displays designed to inspire stockists to create cameo display in-store, complete with a 'menu' listing all the items used to make it easier for consumers to re-create the look at home.
Premier's current focus on brand-building is also evident on the stand, with strong display of the Barbecook, Char Griller, Joe's Barbecue Smoker and Sunday ranges, among others.
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A new factory in Vietnam is enabling LeisureGrow Group to create distinctive points of difference for its new LG Outdoor branding.
 The company's production has been centred on China for many years but new technology in Vietnam is making it possible to produce a synthetic weave with probably the most authentic natural rattan look on the market. "It means we can offer something genuinely different in addition to the products we produce in China," said group chairman Richard Grimmer.
The new 'natural' weave can be seen on a luxury LG Outdoor lounge dining set on the LeisureGrow stand.
The group's Grillstream barbecue brand goes from strength to strength and gains a new mid-price gas model that has been attracting plenty of interest at SOLEX yesterday and today.
Left: LeisureGrow's Richard Grimmer does a comfort test on a new LG Outdoor lounge dining set. Above: can't believe it's not rattan? LG's new Vietnam-sourced sythetic weave.
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Five SOLEX exhibitors were among the finalists in the Garden Centre Supplier of the Year category of GTN's Greatest Awards, presented on the first evening of the show...
Garden centres across the UK nominated dozens of suppliers in the Supplier of the Year category, with Gardman winning the Gold Award. But 4 Seasons Outdoor, Daro, Weber, Kettler and Alexander Rose, all exhibiting at the show today, made it to the shortlist in what turned out to be a close contest when the votes were counted.
For full results of the Greatest Awards, organised by Garden Trade News to reward team excellence in garden centre retailing, click here
Above: the 4 Seasons Outdoor team with their finalist's certificate from the Greatest Awards.
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Swiss Grill managing director John Cooper made quite a noise at SOLEX by employing an alpine horn player to draw visitors to the company's stand.
Frances Jones from Reading is a professional player and she certainly made an impression...and a noise...throughout Hall 5.
John, who became MD at Swiss Grill three months ago, said: "I wanted to find something, or someone, to draw the visitors on to our stand, and Frances has certainly done that with her alpine horn playing.
"I wanted to make a song and dance about our stand, and as I wasn't prepared to sing or dance myself, Frances seemed the best option."
After leaving Weber just over a year ago, John carried out consultancy work before joining Swiss Grill.
"I took this new role at Swiss Grill because I think the company has got great potential. It's a great brand as the name alone conjures up quality, professionalism and outdoor living. There is so much opportunity.
"We're used SOLEX to get as much input as possible from retailers on several prototype models, as well as show them new barbecues like the Zug, our smallest model named after the smallest county in Switzerland."
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One of SunTime's great successes so far this year has been the introduction of an exclusive range of designer solar lights, and the Garden Glows range certainly lit up SOLEX. Garden Glows is a range of solar powered, coloured glass ornaments; that catch the light throughout the day and twinkle into the evening.
Made from an attractive iron and glass construction, they are also available as windchimes and thermometers and offer a low cost add-on to complement any of SunTime's garden furniture range.
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The new Cornfield Weave range of furniture, part of the stylish LIFE collection, proved to be a big hit for Norfolk Leisure.
New to market and born out of creativity and innovation, LIFE is the latest inspiring and stylish outdoor furniture range to get excited about.
LIFE offers a range of inspiring and stylish outdoor furniture that is designed to be as desirable as it is functional. Effortlessly combining luxurious comfort with low cleaning maintenance, LIFE provides year-round garden style. The all-weather seat cushions boast a totally unique and scientifically tested design that lets rain pass straight through. This allows them to dry extremely quickly compared with conventional cushions.
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Kettler has revealed an exciting new collection for the 2015 season, including an addition to its landmark Casual Dining range.
The company has introduced Madrid to the hugely successful Casual Dining collection, reinforcing its position as the home of outdoor furniture that combines dining and relaxing.
Available in both whitewash and rattan, Madrid is a curved corner set with a rounded-edge table, and comfortably seats eight to 10 people with a corner sofa, armchair and bench.
Its mid-height glass-top table makes it part of the versatile Casual Dining range that has proved to be so popular with retailers and consumers.
Kettler also unveiled an exciting new retailer support package developed to help customers grow their casual dining sales even further in 2015, with the original team behind this market-changing concept.
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Innovators roll out full wood effect range
After a successful 'soft launch' at last year's show, importers Innovators International unveiled a fully-fledged range of garden furniture made from recycled hi-impct polystyrene...
Above: Winawood furniture from Innovators International.
After a successful 'soft launch' at last year's show, importers Innovators International unveiled a fully-fledged range of garden furniture made from recycled hi-impct polystyrene.
The line-up includes tables, chairs, love seats and benches, all available in a choice of four colours as well as natural.
The material is manufactured to closely resemble wood in look and weight; solid colour throughout means minor damage during usage can be removed by sanding down.
Innovators say Wionawood has all the aesthetic advantages of wood but with zero maintenance. The benches, at prices similar to teak, are expected to be the mosty popular lines.
Big Fire's search for new stockists hots up...
A father and son team launched a search at SOLEX for new stockists and distributors for their range of wood-fired leisure products...
Above: Ian and John MacQueen display a Dutch tub on their stand.
Father and son partnership Ian and John MacQueen launched a search at SOLEX for new stockists and distributors for their range of wood-fired leisure products...
Their Devon-based company, Big Fire, imports premium quality Dutch tubs, ovens, smokers and fire bowls – a market sector they say has remain relatively unaffected through the economic downturn.
Demand is now picking up and they believe the time is right to expand distribution beyond their current online business. They also have a retail shop at Dartington in Southg Devon.
The Dutch tub was their first product, but the range now includes a smart pizza oven (beow) which they believe will open up a new sub-category as al fresco cooks become ever more ambitious.
Above: Ian and John demonstrate their new pizza oven.
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Boretti Premium Gas Barbecues attract visitors' attention
The Boretti Premium Gas Barbecue being showcased on the Supagrill stand attracted a lot of attention. Retailing at £3,999, one of the impressive barbecues has been sold to a former England porfessional footballer...
Above: Martin Davies of Raglan Garden Centre admires Boretti's 'outdoor kitchen'.
The Boretti Premium Gas Barbecue being showcased on the Supagrill stand attracted a lot of attention. Retailing at £3,999, one of the impressive barbecues has been sold to a former England porfessional footballer.
This magnificent outdoor kitchen wouldn't look out of place indoors - it's that good - and is built to the highest standards by Boretti.
Initially, Supagrill ordered 15 of the premium barbeque and they were snapped up by buyers.
Above: Martin Davies of Raglan Garden Centre admires Boretti's 'outdoor kitchen'.
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 Exclusive indoorcane and rattan furniture from Daro are ideally suited for the lounge or the conservatory.
The outdoor collection employs the latest developments in polyethylene UV and water resistant materials.
First established as a brand in the 1970s, Daro has adapted to the ever-changing needs of the market place and continues to flourishes as a market leader through a commitment to quality.
Only top grade rattan and cane is used to ensure durability.
The UK-based Daro Soft Furnishings Division ensures that the cushions are made to the highest standard with consistency and exclusive designs utilising the latest manufacturing technology.
Information: daro-cane.co.uk
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Design matters say furniture competition judges
The importance of design in the garden furniture industry was emphasised by two high profile judges of a student competition organised by Alexander Rose...
Above: winning student Matt Thompspon (purple shirt, centre) with fellow student finalists, their tutors and judges Diarmuid Gavin and Jonathan Hindle on the design competition exhibit at SOLEX.
The importance of design in the garden furniture industry was emphasised by two high profile judges of a student competition organised by Alexander Rose...
Celebrity garden designer Diarmuid Gavin and Jonathan Hindle, Master of The Furniture Makers Guild, were at SOLEX to promote the results of the competition. Prototypes of the winning designs by Matt Thompson formed the centrepiece of a special exhibit at the back of Hall 5, where images of designs by the runners-up and finalists were also displayed.
Diarmuid Gavin told SOLEX Sun that design in the garden furniture category had lagged behind indoor furnishings, so the competition was an important step forward. Both he and Joanthan Hindle confessed themselves amazed at the standard of entries and the students' understanding of the complexities of the manufacturing process. "For Matt to see his winning design become a reality is a fantastic opportunity," said Diarmuid.
Joanthan said nurturing good design, often neglected, was an investment in the future of the furnishing industry, which overall is worth £28 billion annually, or 3.7% of GDP.
Above: winning student Matt Thompspon (purple shirt, centre) with fellow student finalists, their tutors and judges Diarmuid Gavin and Jonathan Hindle on the design competition exhibit at SOLEX.
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Besp-Oak have been stopping SOLEX visitors in their tracks with their Animalatronics, a series of lifelike animals that move and make noises.
The company are promoting the attractions as follows:
"Want to bring some magic to your store, amaze your customers and increase footfall?
"Enchant and excite your customers, young and old, with life-like movements and sounds.
"Fantastically unique attractions that are certain to generate custom for your store."
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The Solar Centre's popular post-mounted Aria solar crystal ball lights are setting sales records thanks to new POS presentation.
The Aria is available in hanging and post versions - but the post version was slow to sell in its old boxed packaging.
"We talked to retailers and decided to do away with the box and display them in the new merchandiser - and since then they've been flying off the shelf," David told SOLEX Sun.
Margins are good, with single merchandiser deals at a unit price of £7 and an SRP of £19.99, but an SRP of £15.99 is achievable on bulk orders.
A new colour-changing version of the Aria is proving popular.
Click here to see our full range of pictures
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Aussies' top barbie fuel comes to the UK
 Lokkii, Australia's No.1 barbecue fuel, is launching an assault on the UK market. The fuel is a blend of charcoal and anthracite, which the makers, GHHCL of China, say means it's clean burning as well as fast to light...
Lokkii, Australia's No.1 barbecue fuel, is launching an assault on the UK market.
The fuel is a blend of charcoal and anthracite, which the makers, GHHCL of China, say means it's clean burning as well as fast to light. It contains no harmful chemicals of petroleum, which may well; turn out to be one of its key selling points. The packs sport a prominent 'eco-friendly' motif.
Lokkii is the biggest producer of barbecue fuels in China and the brand is also a top seller in Canada.
"We've spent three or four years getting it right before launching it here," said Mark Bungay of Ettay Ltd, Lokkii's UK marketing agent.
The company also supply a range of charcoal bafrbecues and barbecue tools. "The aim is for quality designs at affordable prices," Mark sold SOLEX Sun.
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Grakka supply outdoor cooking brands to retailers, dealers and re-sellers in the UK, Scandinavia and mainland Europe, representing manufacturers from Canada, the USA and Australia.
Bradley Smokers (Canada), is the food smoker of choice for many different user groups and has worldwide recognition. These natural draught smokers are capable of hot and cold smoking and appeal to the home gourmet chef, field sportsman, restaurateurs, cookery schools and smallholders.
Kamado Joe ceramic grills (USA) have well-insulated ceramic bodies and side shelves of bamboo, with all metal fixtures in stainless steel or galvanized steel that is powder coated. The body keeps the heat in the grill while its unique circular shape circulates the heat for more uniform cooking.
Fornetto wood fired ovens (Australia) enble you to create authentic pizzas, bread, roasted meats and baked dishes. Cast iron doors and solid construction give a traditional look coupled with modern technology to ensure confident and safe cooking. Information 01803 712712 grakka.com
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Napoleon Grills unveil two new premium barbecues
Napoleon Grills have unveiled two new premium barbecues. at SOLEX. The two Prestige PRO models – the Prestige PRO825RSIB and Prestige PRO665RSIB – benefit from significant enhancements and there are major upgrades for two current models.
Napoleon Grills will launch two new premium barbecues. The two Prestige PRO models – the Prestige PRO825RSIB and Prestige PRO665RSIB – benefit from significant enhancements and there are major upgrades for two current models.
UK sales manager Martin Sobey says consumers at the premium end of the market have money to spend on the right tool for the job and appear to have been unaffected by the difficult economic climate. “Napoleon is constantly enhancing and improving its range so it makes sound business sense to develop more premium products for 2015,” he added. The Prestige PRO665 benefits from eight burners, including five stainless steel main burners, an infrared rotisserie burner, an infrared side burner and an integrated smoker tray. With a heat output of up to 99,000 BTUs and a substantial cooking surface, it will retail around £3000. The Prestige PRO825 is dual lidded and benefits from ten burners and real cooking flexibility; four stainless steel main burners, an integrated wood chip smoker, rear infrared rotisserie burner, a dedicated built-in SIZZLE ZONE with two infrared bottom burners and a stainless steel tube warming burner in between.
A newly developed side burner combines both an inner circular ceramic infrared burner with an outer flame ring burner for great cooking versatility. It can also accommodate a wok. Heat output is up to 123,000 BTUs and the total grilling area is one of the company’s largest. This top-spec model will retail at around £4,200.
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The Rose Round 8 seater from Zest 4 Leisure is a great product to enjoy a beautiful outdoor dining experience with the family and friends.
Featuring four separate bench seats Rose Round Picnic Table will easily accommodate eight average adults. Manufactured from high quality pressure treated timber to stand the test of time, this picnic table comes with 10 years guarantee against rot.
The Katie Round Picnic Table on the stand at Solex is a also great product to enjoy a beautiful outdoor picnic. Featuring four separate bench seats it will accommodate up to four adults or even eight children for a fun picnic. It has proved popular at the exhibition.
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Monterey Range is Barlow Tyrie’s interpretation of mid-century modern design, inspired by Monterey Bay on central California’s Pacific coast. This elegant armchair is built using quality materials and refined traditional construction methods. It’s reassuring to ‘know’ that our designer and craftsman have created a ‘true-classic’ in the making, with style and comfortable to match our Barlow Tyrie standard for outdoor leisure furniture.
Sculptured using a solid teak frame with braided cord for seat and back, combine to give a timeless appearance. The round braided cord is woven from Olefin (a key feature is it’s light fastness) and Textilene making it rugged with a soft hand, it repels water and UV inhibitors stop fading. To complete the set of ‘traditional values’, plus the legendry properties of teak, we have our Monterey dining table; 3m long that seats 12 comfortably and combines an easy to clean ceramic table top with the traditional solid teak frame and legs.
This refined style of chair and table go together to create a truly impressive set of dining furniture.
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How about this for a cool box? Yes, you can have a game of table football while your beer is cooling in a compartment beneath. And there were more great cool boxes on the Garden Furniture Global stand.
New LOFA members Jigsaw Furniture had a great first SOLEX and their Swivel T42 chair and Andora Suite both proved popular with visitors...
"Our collections have been well received by retailers visiting our stand," said Ian Green.
"There has been lots of interest for the Swivel T42 chair, and the Andora Suite is popular because it's ideal for both outdoor and indoor use. The Andora is also very good value for money - in fact we've doubled our sales on the range this year."
Jigsaw Furniture are based in Middlesbrough and they supply both the commercial and retail markets.
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 The Urbano collection includes Alto, a stylish, tall white mesh table with six stools that would look equally at home in a modern garden, on the patio or set against a city skyline on a roof terrace.
Urbano also features Happy, a bright stackable armchair that comes in a range of colours.
The Happy chair teams up with the Swing-Let, a unique swinging tray on a stand, helping the design-conscious consumer to stay refreshed whilst enjoying the summer sun. The Swing-Let is demonstrated here by Paul Bevington.
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Visitors to SOLEX were the first to see the new gas version of the Cobb barbecue cooking system.
The award winning Cobb system - popular in its home territory of South Africa, where it is endorsed by the South African Heart Foundation, is a portable system ideal for campers, caravanners and beach picnickers but offers all the benefits of a full-sized barbecue. You can use it to roast, bake, smoke, fry and grill in a smart unit made largely of stainless steel.
Unveiled for ther first time in the UK at SOLEX was the new gas model which joined its charcoal-fuelled siblings just this week.
Chesapeake is an extensive new collection from Barlow Tyrie
Barlow Tyrie unveiled Chesapeake at SOLEX, an extensive new collection in solid teak, initially comprising an armchair, side chair, innovative swivel rocker complete with Sunbrella fabrick cushions and dining tables in two lengths – 2 metre and 2.8 metre.
Barlow Tyrie unveiled Chesapeake at SOLEX, an extensive new collection in solid teak, initially comprising an armchair, side chair, innovative swivel rocker complete with Sunbrella fabrick cushions and dining tables in two lengths – 2 metre and 2.8 metre.
The range is being extended to include 113cm circular low dining tables, lounger and deep seating in the near future.
Its 'look' marries aspects of the traditional, such as rolled armrests on the chairs and rolled edges with curved sides to the dining table, with clean, crisp contemporary touches that include nylon glides on the bottom of tapered legs.
New patio fires from Gardeco
Following consumer demand, Gardeco are reversing the product trend to down-spec patio fire products with the launch of the new Big Fire range of patio fires for Spring 2015...
 Following consumer demand, Gardeco are reversing the product trend to down-spec patio fire products with the launch of the new Big Fire range of patio fires for Spring 2015.
Many users of real patio fires would like to enjoy the extra warmth of a larger fire. Not all patio fires are suited to such large fires. The Gardeco Big Fire label is a stamp of approval for users and a guideline for retailers when making recommendations to end-users.
The various models in the Big Fire range for 2015 include cast iron fire pits as the Maelyss, the Gwell and the Dyran, all new for 2015.
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 Exceptional trade demand - prompted by consumers celebrating an early 'Barbecue Spring' - has put a sunny touch to the Solex launch of Outback's new Trekker gas barbecue.
Powered by a 5kg lpg container, and aimed specifically at campers, touring and on-site caravan enthusiasts, and static and motorhome owners, the British-designed barbecue can be assembled in 15 minutes and stowed away in 10. Cooks can choose to use the Trekker's pan stand, reversible frying/ griddle plate or the grill to serve up a variety of menus, while an easy-clean cooking bowl and the griddle’s grease collection channel reduce the washing up. “Outback’s sales in Spring and early Summer saw an unprecedented demand that matched the surge we saw at the end of the season in 2013. Barbecue enthusiasts like to plan ahead, and with a late Easter in view this year they made an early start to making their choice, as they looked forward to outdoor leisure entertaining. "Our success in meeting high-level and rapid Spring and Summer demand from garden centre, in-store and on-line consumers underlines the importance of early trade forecasts and order placement. This in turn enables us, as a major supplier, to effectively service the trade and maximise their sales", said Outback UK International's chief executive Mark Osborne.
Further information from mark@tpagas.com or call 07795 422871.
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The Bloomwall eco-friendly vertical modular wall garden for decorative plants or plants proved popular on the Bambrella stand (200).
Lightweight and self-supporting, the Bloomwall can be built to any height you like, and can be painted any colour with exterior paint.
Cutting and dimensional changes are easy with a simple handsaw and sandpaper.
It's frost-resistant and non flammable, and its high thermal resistance protects plants from extreme heat variations.
Zest 4 Leisure pair arrive at SOLEX on bikes
Zest 4 Leisure managing director Steve Morgan and key account manager Paul Haynes took the scenic route to SOLEX by cycling from the company's headquarters in Mold, North Wales, to raise money for Alzheimer's Society...
 Zest 4 Leisure managing director Steve Morgan and key account manager Paul Haynes took the scenic route to SOLEX by cycling from the company's headquarters in Mold, North Wales, to raise money for Alzheimer's Society.
The dynamic duo cycled the 200 hundred mile round trip to raise much-needed funds to help fight against dementia.
Sales manager Alwyn Williams and the company's account managers were at the NEC to welcome Steve and Paul.
Later this year Steve and senior manager John Vaughan will be taking part in the Iron Man Challenge in Tenby, South Wales. The pair hope to complete the gruelling course – a 2.4 mile swin, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run – in the time allowance of 17 hours.
If you would like to sponsor the Zest 4 Leisure team's charity efforts visit https://www.justgiving.com/P-A-Fencing-and-Sheds-Ltd3/
Zest 4 Leisure exhibited at SOLEX for the first time. The team displayed stylish, ergonomically designed timber garden furniture, including dining sets, garden seats, tables, benches and picnic tables. The entire range is manufactured using FSC certified timber and Zest 4 Leisure is committed to supporting the responsible management of the world's forests. With a reputation for qualitty, innovation and outstanding custoimer service, the team is looking forward to meeting lots of news faces at the NEC.
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Campingaz extends its barbecue range
Building on the success of its newly-launched 2014 barbecue range, Campingaz showcased an updated collection at SOLEX. With a model to suit all types of consumer, the barbecues are a result of a multi-million dollar investment by the company and combine advanced technology and features with eye-catching, contemporary designs...
 Building on the success of its newly-launched 2014 barbecue range, Campingaz showcased an updated collection at SOLEX. With a model to suit all types of consumer, the barbecues are a result of a multi-million dollar investment by the company and combine advanced technology and features with eye-catching, contemporary designs.
For 2015, Campingaz has added to the range with an ultra-portable new 1 Series barbecue that is ideal for use on small balconies or while out and about.
The collection is headlined by the premium RBS models which combine Campingaz’ advanced RBS technology housed within a eye-catching design for unparalleled style and performance. Alternatively, consumers can harness the power of cast iron with the 3 and 4 Series Cast Iron, while the 3 and 4 Series Classic and Woody barbecues boast an efficient stainless steel tube burner system paired with a stylish, wooden design.
Budget-conscious consumers are catered for with the compact yet powerful 2 Series Classic range and for when space is at a premium, the 2 Series Compact features a flexible and portable, space-saving design complete with a practical folding trolley. All of the Campingaz barbecue models incorporate several innovative design features, each developed to enhance the user’s barbecuing experience. For increased cooking versatility, several models boast the flexible Culinary Modular Accessory System which allows users to remove the inner ring of the cast iron grid and replace it with a convenient modular insert.
Making it easy to enjoy flavours from all around the world, the Culinary Modular Accessory System includes an optional wok, pizza stone or a paella pan.
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The Chili is the latest colour to join the Major range of charcoal barbecues from Barbecook, adding a vibrant red to the existing line-up of stainless steel, black, blue and lime finishes.  The range features Barbecook’s QuickStart® system, whose adjustable air supply creates enough controllable power to enable barbecuing withouta lid in practically any location.Grilling without lid also means that no harmful substances can enter the food, and the easily adjustable grid prevents any contact with harmful flare-ups.
Information: barbecook.com (product details) or premierdec.com (trade contact details) OR 020 8624 5555
Bosmere, who celebrate their 35th anniversary this year, showcased a new range of covers alongside their established collections of protection products for garden furniture, barbecues and garden accessories. T
he new lines promise exceptional value and quality and have features found in more expensive ranges.
Information 01293 586200
Portofino from Alexander Rose is a versatile and practical collection of benches, chairs, sunbeds and tables takes garden furniture to a new level of cutting-edge contemporary style.
Equally at home in a town or country setting, the Portofino provides comfort, low maintenance and unrivalled product performance in all weather conditions.
Precision and durability are the hallmarks, as demonstrated in the intricate way the fine powder coated mild steel and wire mesh together, fusing lines, shapes and patterns in designs of timeless minimalism. Information 01444 258928
Keeping the little biters at bay...
British company Agropharm are working with outdoor products and equipment distributors Summit to launch a range of natural insect repellents...
British company Agropharm are working with outdoor products and equipment distributors Summit to launch PreVent, a seven-item range of natural insect repellents.
Products include a bite and sting relief pen, aerosol, pump spray, cream, insect repellent candles and wipes.
PreVent offers a natural alternative to chemical products without compromising on effectiveness. The range, in new blister packs, is suitable for the whole family, even young children and those with sensitive skin. Information (Summit) 01268 505171
 Asado Grill, making their SOLEX debut, launched a range of stylish designs that aim to realise the full potential of the ‘instant barbecue’ concept.
For example, the Asado BOX is a lava stone heat source that last for 2-3 hours, with no cleaning up required.
Information asado-grill.com
 Charbroil promote their Tru-Infrared system as ‘grilling’s juicy little secret’, producing food that is up to 50% juicier without flare-ups, with heat evenly distributed across the cooking surface.
There are ‘Performance’, ‘Patio Bistro’ and ‘THIN’ models, all of which were exhibited at SOLEX.
Info 01993 705217
 Black Country metalworks believe their extraordinary, new merchandiser (left) is a bit of a game changer.
The reinvented stands provide the same function but offer garden centres theatre and individuality.
“Supplying these exciting stands free of charge illustrates our passion for retail and for providing unrivalled support,” they tell us.
Trade customers are invited to view the company’s retail outlet housing the largest collection of decorative metal in the UK (accommodation and refreshments included).
Information 01691 610952
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