With garden centres accounting for around 60% of plant sales in the UK, the NFU horticulture team had raised with Defra the importance of these businesses remaining open should restrictions once again tighten.
NFU horticulture adviser Allie Hesketh said:
“This is welcome news for ornamental growers, given the major impact March’s lockdown had on our sector. It also sets an important precedent for any further lockdowns, especially if restrictions continue into the spring.
"However, we will be monitoring this situation very closely should restrictions tighten even further and continue to highlight the important role garden centres and other ornamental retailers can play during this difficult time.”
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