Five questions with Buzz Sierke

1. Why is it so important for retail garden centers to have quality greenhouse structures? 

BS: Over the years, the “Garden Center” has evolved from the typical small neighborhood source of greenhouse-grown seasonal vegetables, annual transplants and ornamental shrubs. Today’s structures should be considered the “Profit Center” for the business. The more appealing and bigger the greenhouse is, the longer customers shop, resulting in larger average purchases and thus more profit for the garden center owner.

2. What makes a retail greenhouse effective?

BS: There are several important things the garden center owner can do to enhance the effectiveness of the greenhouse. Most importantly, be sure it is designed with an attractive exterior and appearance that complements the rest of the garden center buildings. Inviting entrances, impressive landscaping and signage, interior layout of displays, expanded product mix and effective lighting are all critical to making retail successful.

3. How does Gothic Arch ensure retail clients are getting the right structures for their needs?

BS: Having been a leader for over 70 years gives Gothic Arch Greenhouses a unique understanding of the various elements of this dynamic industry. Our portfolio includes a wide variety of projects, from the entry level back-yard hobbyist to the vocational education system, the wholesale commercial produce, plant and flower growers and the vibrant retailers. This hands-on experience has taught us the need to listen well to our customers. Extensive discussions with all parties involved with the greenhouse project, from inception and planning through to the implementation and installation of the project, is our key to ensuring a successful outcome.

4. Do you have any tips for garden center owners looking to make the most of their retail greenhouse space?

BS: Think outside the box, be innovative and pay attention to trends from local and global levels for the retail garden center outlets. Give priority to attending a major trade show or two annually. Two outstanding organizations that host major conferences are the AmericanHort Cultivate show in Columbus, Ohio, and the IGC Show in Chicago. These are great shows that offer tour opportunities to view other successful garden centers, compare notes, share knowledge and discuss possibilities with other professionals.

5. What sets Gothic Arch Greenhouses apart from competing structure providers?

BS: What sets us apart is the strength and experience gained from serving this amazing industry for over 70 years as both a manufacturer and distributor. We are aligned with a wide array of domestic and international allied companies. This enables us to offer a more extensive selection of greenhouses, equipment and supplies at affordable costs. Our greenhouse offerings spans the broad application of the various segments of the market: the entry-level home hobby sector to high-end glass conservatories, economical gutter-connected poly-film covered structures, enormous free-span fabric structures, institutional and research-level facilities, and of course the custom “Profit Center” Retail Greenhouse enclosure. Another unique strength that sets us apart is that we specialize in design-build customization for projects requiring a more ‘hands-on’ interaction. When needed, we provide on-site inspection by our experienced consultants to ensure that every aspect of your project is tailored to your specific needs. So, if you are thinking about a project in the future, visit our website to view our offerings at www.GothicArchGreenhouses.com and give us a call toll-free at 800-531-4769 to open a discussion with one of our friendly, knowledgeable specialists. We look forward to the honor of working with you and sincerely appreciate the opportunity to be of service.

For more information: www.gothicarchgreenhouses.com