Visual Merchandising Consultancy For Chessington Garden Centre

It has been a pleasure to support the fantastic team at Chessington Garden Centre with their Visual Merchandising and store layout over the past few months. This month I supported the team with styling and merchandising the new outdoor space, which features a range of beautiful pergolas which I styled with outdoor furniture, pizza ovens, bbq’s and outdoor accessories to create styled outdoor room settings.

We also re styled the front entrance with installing a garden space which featured copper structures to create the focal point and seasonal planting.

Since 2020, I have worked a great deal with garden centres across the UK, who are looking for Visual Merchandising expertise to support their teams instore. Garden centres have now evolved into full retail destinations as customers increasingly seek out experiences that combine shopping, leisure, and wellbeing. During and after the pandemic, people rediscovered their homes and outdoor spaces, driving an increase in interest in gardening, but also in spending quality time closer to home. Garden centres responded by enhancing their offer—expanding cafés, introducing lifestyle ranges, and creating inspiring environments that encourage customers to spend time in store rather than simply purchase. Creating a multi-sensory experience in store for customers, they provide an appealing alternative to traditional high streets and indoor retail. This shift has positioned garden centres not just as places to buy plants, but as enjoyable day-out destinations that meet emotional as well as practical needs. Visual Merchandising plays a crucial role in turning that inspiration into action, influencing both how customers feel and what they ultimately buy.

Outdoor plant displays are often the very first thing customers see, setting the tone for their entire visit. Well-organised, vibrant, and seasonal displays immediately communicate quality and care. A thoughtfully arranged entrance filled with healthy, colourful plants can create a sense of excitement and trust, encouraging customers to explore further.

More importantly, Visual Merchandising helps customers imagine possibilities in their garden and homes. By grouping plants into themed displays garden centres make decision-making easier. Customers can visualise how plants will look in their own gardens, which increases confidence and drives purchases. Outdoor areas can quickly become overwhelming, especially during peak seasons. Clear signage, effective layouts, and well-defined sections reduce confusion and improve the overall shopping experience. When customers can easily find what they need or discover something new, they’re more likely to stay longer and buy more.

Creating seasonal areas and highlighting what’s looking its best right now, whether it’s spring bedding, summer perennials, or autumn foliage, keeps the space fresh and relevant. It subtly guides customers toward timely purchases and reinforces the garden centre as a trusted expert.

Visual Merchandising isn’t just about making things look attractive. It’s about storytelling, guidance, and creating an enjoyable experience that connects customers with plants in a meaningful way. For garden centres, especially in outdoor plant areas, it’s one of the most powerful tools for turning browsers into buyers.

For more information on how I can support you and your business with Visual Merchandising Consultancy please get in touch, I would love to know how I can support you;

Mobile +44 7976 575847

Email   sarah@visualmerchandisingconsultant.co.uk

All Images copyright of VMC