Great Britain might not be famed for its glorious weather, but a leading joinery manufacturer today revealed a boom in summerhouse sales.
Scotts of Thrapston chairman David Scott said that the UK firm had sold more summerhouses in 2014 than in any other 12 month period in its 95 year history.
Mr Scott said that sales had soared by around 25 per cent – and added that it was pleasing to see solid sales across all summerhouses in the Scotts range.
The success was attributed to a hugely successful exhibition at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and the fact that savvy buyers are now looking for extra value from their purchases.
Mr Scott, who is a third generation member of the family which founded Scotts of Thrapston in 1920, said: “It has been a fantastic year for us in terms of sales of summerhouses – the best in our history.
“2009 was a good year – but 2014 has even surpassed that. We are delighted.
“Of course, with seasonal products like this you see the bulk of sales between April and September. But what has been encouraging is that we have seen regular monthly sales right throughout the year.
“That is partly due to the milder winter and relatively good summer weather, but it’s also helped by the success of this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which was the best one we’ve exhibited at in 40 years.
“Our success is another clear sign that the economy is improving.”
Scotts of Thrapston is one of the country’s leading suppliers of specialist timber products, including equestrian buildings, roof structures, pavilions, garages, outbuildings and bespoke joinery.
The firm collaborated with designer Katie Alice at its shows and exhibitions this year, which included Chelsea Flower Show and RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, giving customers the chance to see styled summerhouses on display.
Mr Scott said: “What we’re seeing is people are looking for value for their money and they want the better quality products.
“They want to receive the personal service that we offer, and they want products that are going to stand the test of time.”
Scotts’ core summerhouse range has been strengthened by the introduction of a range of buildings designed in close partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). In 2013 the company initially launched the RHS Centenary Arbour and RHS Centenary Summerhouse inspired by the 100th anniversary of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
This year the firm added to the range with the launch of The RHS Cosy Nook, which is made from pressure impregnated European redwood and measures 1.8 metres from front to back and two metres in width. A range of seven heritage colour finishes are available and prices start at £2,995.
Mr Scott concludes: “The success of 2014 is hugely down to the dedication and commitment of our team here in Thrapston. We’re confident that 2015 will continue the upward trend and look forward to welcoming new customers and introducing them to the benefits of garden buildings and summerhouses.”