Five Questions with Tatsiana Thomson

What new products do you have coming out?

We’re renowned for our innovative squirrel-proof bird feeders, known as Squirrel Buster®. Our flagship product, the Squirrel Buster® Plus, stands as the premium choice in our lineup — being the largest and best-selling. It earned the title of the best squirrel-proof bird feeder by Popular Science in 2018. The pandemic has notably increased interest in bird feeding, leading to a surge in demand from garden centers. Recognizing the challenge suburban residents face in finding suitable locations to hang their bird feeders, we’ve developed a versatile pole system. This system not only supports bird feeders and planters but also enables you to cultivate a vibrant mini-ecosystem right in your own yard, attracting a variety of birds with ease. Importantly, our solution is also designed to be raccoon-proof, addressing the common issue of raccoons pilfering food. This year, we are excited to introduce a range of products, including the Raccoon Buster® Guardian Pole System, designed to enhance the bird-watching experience.

What tips do you have for independent garden centers to increase birding-related sales of products in their stores?

Increasing sales is all about education and integration. We provide a wealth of resources, including posters and point-of-purchase displays, to enrich customers’ understanding of birds. By demonstrating how bird feeders can seamlessly integrate with existing garden offerings — like pairing them with strawberry baskets or flowers that attract hummingbirds — garden centers can create enticing mini-ecosystems. This holistic approach not only draws in birds but also enhances the overall appeal of garden spaces.

What kind of support or resources do you offer to retail garden centers?

Our commitment to quality extends beyond our products to our support for retail partners. All Brome® products come with Lifetime Care™, enabling garden centers to offer replacement parts and ensure customer satisfaction over the long term. We provide an array of marketing materials, including videos and images, through an easily accessible FTP folder. We actively engage with garden centers through training sessions to enhance product knowledge and sales effectiveness. Our philosophy opposes disposable products, emphasizing sustainability and customer care as key to driving sales.

How can your products help customers of independent garden centers succeed in their birding efforts?

The packaging of our Squirrel Buster® line and pole systems is meticulously designed to serve as a comprehensive guide. Each box features selling points, QR codes for instructional videos, vivid pictures and detailed descriptions, ensuring customers have all the information they need to make informed decisions and enjoy a successful birding experience.

What makes your product stand out from your competitors?

Our dedication to quality is unmatched. We invest a lot of time in the design and testing of each new product to ensure its effectiveness and patentability. Our products undergo rigorous testing in various climates across North America to guarantee their performance. The hallmark of our brand is our Lifetime Care™ policy — reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction and environmental stewardship.

For more information: store.bromebirdcare.com