Gardenwear firm sees its turnover soar in pandemic
ACOTSWOLDS-BASED gardening retailer has seen a 160% hike in year-on-year turnover as people spent more time at home in the pandemic.
Online-only store Genus Gardenwear makes clothing for gardeners as well as selling gardening tools, gifts and accessories.
The company said a boom in internet shopping had also bolstered sales, with annual turnover at £600,000 for the last financial year compared with £223,000 for 2019-2020.
Founder Sue O’Neil said lockdown had seen more people spending time in their gardens and wanting seeds and perennials to plant, and tools and equipment.
She said the impact of Brexit had also “played a part” with conkeen to buy products from British firms.
“Genus is now firmly established as a brand leader in its field, and we have exciting plans to expand the range further to retain existing Genus fans and help attract even more new customers,” she said.
The company, which was established in 2013, has also partnered with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) on a number of its products.
Ms O’Neil, a former consultant and lecturer in innovation design and business development, said she was inspired to set up the firm after having a “business eureka moment” when she couldn’t find the right clothes for gardening.
She added: “Genus’s unique selling point is the clothing is designed by gardeners for gardeners who understand how the right sort of clothes can make gardening more comfortable and enjoyable when constantly kneeling, bending and stretching, and being outdoors in all weathers, and all seasons.”