Garden ponds in vogue across Europe

As the cold, gloomy winter months give way to spring, many people feel a growing inclination to spend more time in the open air again. Some even introduce a bit of nature into their own back garden with the creation of a garden pond. In England, Germany and the Benelux countries, the number of garden pond owners has risen steadily in recent years; in Southern and Eastern Europe, the market is still developing.
The critical economic situation does not appear to have halted the growth of the garden pond market. On the contrary, in the face of current economic and political uncertainty many people are preferring to invest in their own homes rather than foreign travel, which could have positive consequences for the pond business. Now it’s down to the trade to exploit the available potential through a varied product range, competent professional advice and an attractively presented garden pond department.
The garden pond market is a central feature of this issue of PET in Europe. We report on how the individual markets in Europe differ, offer tips on how to create an attractive pond department and present the latest products for the approaching season.
This issue also focuses on the two specialist fairs Expozoo in Paris and Zoomark International in Bologna. As in the case of APPMA, which took place in Atlanta at the end of February, the trends for this year are set at these shows. Events of this nature also offer an ideal opportunity to make contacts that may give rise to new business relationships. In our extensive round-up previewing the new products to be unveiled at the exhibitions in Paris and Bologna, we hope to give you a glimpse of what awaits you. PET in Europe will also be represented at the two principal European fairs of this year. I look forward to meeting you there for a chat about current industry topics.
Your
Ralf Majer-Abele