Display inspiration

A couple of garden retailers were among the winners of Midwest’s first Show Us Your Sparkle in-store display and events contest for independent retailers.

Midwest sponsored the Sparkle contest to bring attention and recognition to independent retailers who show creativity and excellence in displays and in-store events, two key elements to driving traffic and sales. More than 300 entries were submitted, and Midwest awarded 10 independent retailers with first-, second- and third-place recognition.

Garden Supply Co. in Cary, N.C., won first place for its holiday display that encompassed several themes and a plethora of product. You hardly feel like you’re in a greenhouse!

Osuna Nursery in Albuquerque, N.M., won a third-place recognition for a clean, crisp presentation of Colonial Candles. I like the way the designers tied in non-candle products like permanent botanicals and potpourri for add-on sales.

Midwest designs the Seasons of Cannon Falls brand of holiday and seasonal home accents and Colonial Candle brand of candles.

-- Kevin