In-depth analysis of 2011 National Gardening Survey debuts at Farwest Show

Noted garden-center consultant Ian Baldwin will present for the first time in public his unprecedented analysis and report on the 2011 National Gardening Survey during this year’s Farwest Show in Portland, Ore., according to show manager Aimee McAuliffe.

Titled “Connect the Dots or Plan Your Exit Strategy,” Baldwin’s report marks the first time in its 38-year history a garden center expert has been invited to analyze the results of the National Gardening Survey to identify implications for retailers and the nursery industry.

“The Farwest Show is pleased to feature Ian's first public presentation of his report, which is hot off the press," McAuliffe said. The show will be held Aug. 25-27 in Portland, Ore.

“Shifting demographics in the U.S. provide opportunities for companies that listen and respond to the market and stay focused on the needs of the emerging consumer,” Baldwin said. “There is a growing disconnect between the way most retailers and suppliers operate and the way the consumer increasingly wants to be catered to. The information gleaned from the survey will be a wake-up call, but if they pay attention it can have a positive impact on garden centers and the nurseries and suppliers that sell to them.”

In his report, Baldwin digs deep into the wealth of survey data and reaches out to growers, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers with his unique, inside-the-industry perspective. “Business as usual will not be a winning strategy in the future,” he said.

Here are notes about Baldwin’s presentation at Farwest:

"Connect the Dots or Plan Your Exit Strategy"
Thursday, August 25
3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
B 110-112
Oregon Convention Center
This is a free seminar and open to everyone attending the show.