Expectations in the garden market

Better than in other sections, but not satisfactory - that is how the past garden year could be summarised. In spite of the difficult economic framework conditions and an unfavourable start to the season, altogether the garden ranges have proven comparably stable. This was the appraisal of the Industry Garden Association (IVG) in its annual report. Thus, the garden market achieved a good result in comparison to other industries. Compared to the previous year, a 1.3 percent increase in turnover was achieved in 2024. But what are the experts' opinions regarding the future development?

According to the prognoses of German and international economic research institutes, no strong economic recovery is in sight for the year 2025. The buying propensity and private consumption is not expected to show any strong positive growth either. The IVG is expecting the consumer prices to increase by around 2.1 percent for the current year. The rises in prices for garden products will thus mostly probably remain at a comparable level than in 2024. However, it remains to be seen what effect the current turbulences in the global economy will have on the price development.

With a view to the future, above-average growth is being forecast for certain segments of private consumption. This above all correlates with the demographic developments and changed consumer preferences. For example, Klaus Peter Teipel, an expert who is in high demand in the garden industry, is observing an increase in experience-oriented expenditure and a growing demand for environmentally-friendly products. Themes that the garden industry has been occupying itself with for years and which will strongly influence the market and its product ranges in the future. The industry already offers a wide-ranging offer here and the garden market could also profit from this in the future too.

It is not easy for the DIY and specialised garden stores to venture an outlook either. Many – also international – challenges remain valid," commented Dr. Peter Wüst. The Chief Executive Director of the Trade Association for Home Improvement, Construction & Gardening e.V. (BHB) is nevertheless looking ahead optimistically : DIY and specialised garden stores have the contacts and experts to make people's home and gardens more beautiful, more functional and more resistant," stated Wüst. Here all of the products are available in different price categories. Plus, services are offered that facilitate the assembly, cultivation and choice of products. "And we are currently busy turning our customers into fans: The garden communities of the companies are growing and thriving."

Pleasing with a view to the specialised garden trade: The satisfaction of the clientele has increased. A survey by Kundenmonitor Deutschland in January 2025 revealed a slight increase in the overall satisfaction with building and DIY stores. In comparison to the first half of 2024, among others the price/performance ratio, the design of the retail space and the goods presentation has been appraised more positively. The customers also perceived a considerable improvement regarding aspects like the attentiveness of the staff and the availability of contact persons.

Gardens are far more than green oases today. They unite people, create places of retreat and recreation - which is gaining in significance particularly in turbulent times. spoga+gafa 2025 will demonstrate which new chances and possibilities will be available to the garden industry in the future. Here, not only the innovations for the next garden season will be presented, the ground-breaking industry themes will also be highlighted. Hence, everyone is eagerly looking forward to the leading international trade fair, which will present itself as the market and trend barometer again from 24 to 26 June.