Yes, Spring is indeed in the air over at the new Longacres garden centre in Nutty Lane, Shepperton. As well as beautiful blooms and blossoms bursting forth, there are significant changes afoot. The camping shop has moved out to the front of the site alongside Easicut Mowers so dads can make a beeline to look at the new range of tents and equipment and dream of summer!
At the back of the garden centre the area is being spruced up and new lines added to satisfy demand and offer even more choice. There is a children’s play area being developed and outside seating if you fancy your excellent coffee in the sunshine. If what you want is peace however, the quiet seating remains inside, with a great view of the tempting cakes…
There are also changes inside, where a selection of fresh fruit and veg is now available, alongside artisan breads, a grocery range and fresh eggs.
The cut flowers at the back are kept chilled to ensure ultimate freshness. The cookware section offers a good range of practical items and gift ideas and the card section offers a great choice of original designs from humorous to tasteful.
The range across the centre is already good and is growing. Longacres is still a private family run business, with Peter Long still at the helm. With the huge success of the Bagshot centre, they have used their knowledge and experience to offer what customers want. This is inevitably a great choice, good quality and keenly priced.
There is no doubt that keen pricing is in evidence throughout the store with most items cheaper than other outlets. As Longacres are said to be the largest independent garden centre in the South East (£16m annual turnover apparently), they have the negotiating power with suppliers. These are savings they are happy to pass on to customers and offers are evident in most departments.
With an analytical approach to the business, you can be sure of an ongoing attention to customer needs. They will be conducting a survey shortly and are keen to listen to ideas.