What is ex-display garden and outdoor stock?
Ex-display, ex-demo and clearance garden stock is new or nearly new outdoor items that retailers and manufacturers need to sell quickly. These include show-site models from garden centres and DIY sheds, end-of-season clearance lines, cancelled customer orders and display buildings that have been assembled for a showroom or exhibition. Because the items have been handled, assembled or simply left over from a season, they are priced well below the standard retail price. You get the same make and model for a fraction of the cost.
What types of garden items are covered
This category covers a wide range of outdoor products. You will find:
- Sheds and summer houses
- Garden furniture sets (wood, metal and rattan)
- Rattan furniture sofas, dining sets and loungers
- Greenhouses and cold frames
- Hot tubs and above-ground swimming pools
- BBQs, pizza ovens and outdoor cooking equipment
- Garden storage boxes, bins and tool racks
Most items are from well-known brands and retailers. Ex-display garden buildings and rattan sets are often show-site or showroom models that have been assembled for display. They may have minor marks from being on show but are structurally sound and fully functional. End-of-season clearance stock is brand new but surplus to a retailer's needs.
When to buy for the biggest savings
The largest discounts come at the end of the season. Garden retailers clear out summer stock from September to November to make room for Christmas and winter lines. This is when you will find the best prices on rattan furniture, BBQs and garden buildings. Spring and early summer also have deals as retailers shift last year's models. Ex-display buildings can appear at any time when a show site is refreshed or a customer cancels an order. Keep an eye on the marketplace for new listings.
Popular brands and retailers to search for
Buyers often search for specific names. The most common are Keter (plastic sheds, storage and furniture), Rattan Direct (rattan furniture sets) and Waltons (timber sheds, summer houses and greenhouses). Retailers such as B and Q, Wickes and Homebase frequently list ex-display and clearance garden stock. Other brands include Forest Garden, Rowlinson, Suncast and Hartman. Searching for these names on ex-display.co.uk will bring up the relevant listings.
What to check before buying ex-display garden items
Before you commit to a purchase, check these points:
- Measure your space carefully. Garden buildings and furniture sets have specific dimensions. Make sure the item will fit where you intend to put it.
- Consider access. Large items such as sheds, summer houses and hot tubs need to be moved into your garden. Check gate widths, paths and any steps. Delivery drivers may not carry items through narrow gaps.
- Ask whether the item needs dismantling and re-erecting. Ex-display garden buildings are often already assembled. You may need to take them apart to move them and then rebuild them on your site. Some sellers offer this service for an extra fee.
- Check timber treatment and weathering. Ex-display wooden buildings may have been outside for weeks or months. Look for signs of rot, warping or damp. Treated timber should still be in good condition but ask the seller about any warranty.
- Clarify delivery or collection. Heavy items like hot tubs, stone BBQs and large rattan sets may need to be collected or delivered by specialist courier. Check the seller's terms for delivery costs and whether they offer kerbside or room-of-choice delivery.
Ex-display and clearance garden stock is a practical way to get high-quality outdoor items for less. By checking the condition, dimensions and delivery arrangements, you can avoid surprises and enjoy your garden at a bargain price.
New to ex-display? Read what ex-display means and the ex-display glossary. Browse ex-display B&Q and Wickes, or the full A to Z of brands.