Associated Independent Stores Ltd

Associated Independent Stores (AIS) is the UK and Ireland's leading buying group, that helps independent retailers thrive. For ambitious garden centres, AIS is a strategic partner, supporting you to cultivate growth across Homewares, Gifting, Toys, Leisure, Fashion and Furniture.

We provide our Members with unparalleled access to expert range advice, a global supplier network, market insight and trends, as well as product exclusivity to ensure unique, high-quality products that resonate with today’s customer.

We can help transform your retail space and improve your commercial performance. AIS will :

· Unlock new demographics with fashion within your brand mix, from working with exclusive-to-UK European collections to global brands including French Connection, Seasalt, and White Stuff.

· Advise on positioning your centre as a true retail innovator: explore our sports brands; with the rise of athleisure, this is one to watch out for.

· Provide connections to captivate new generations year-round on toys with top-tier suppliers like LEGO.

· Give you competitive edge with Member show exclusives, previews and private networking events at all INDX trade shows.

· Reduce your administration workloads with our central paying system (CENPAC) which streamlines transactions between you and your Suppliers - make fast, stress-free, secure and accurate payments to all your Suppliers with a single weekly payment.

· Introduce you to a supportive network of independent retailers, sharing best practice and insight at events and through our member platforms.

And we do all this with a heartfelt commitment to preserving the independent identity of your garden centre. Let us thrive together.