Press release —
Garden Retail in Dialogue: Lechuza Looks Back on a Successful IGCA Congress 2026
From August 16 to 22, Hob Creations GmbH showcased its Lechuza, Pon, and Deco brands at this year’s International Garden Center Association (IGCA) conference. Approximately 270 participants from 21 countries gathered to discuss current developments, experience best-practice concepts in action, and develop shared perspectives on the future of the garden retail industry.
Several hosting garden centers, including Gartenwelt Dauchenbeck in Stein, Gärtnerei Scherdi in Hofstetten, and Garten-Land Wohlhüter, opened their doors to international visitors. In addition to facility tours and expert discussions on topics such as business management, product ranges, and marketing, the program also featured cultural highlights, including a joint Oktoberfest evening.
For Hob Creations GmbH, the conference week presented numerous opportunities to engage with international participants. The focus was on the broad product ranges of the Lechuza, Pon, and Deco brands, as well as current developments in the garden retail industry. In addition, existing contacts were strengthened and new international connections were forged, paving the way for promising opportunities for further collaboration.
Stefan Hörl, Team Lead Export at Hob Creations, draws a positive conclusion: “Events like the IGCA Congress are more than just professional exchanges. They bring people with shared interests and similar challenges together, creative new perspectives and strengthen international partnerships. This is what drives our industry forward in the long term.”
Following the eventful days of the IGCA Congress in Germany, attention is already turning to next year: The International Garden Centre Association Congress will then take place in Tokyo, Japan, from October 17 to 22, 2027.
About Hob Creations GmbH
Hob Creations GmbH brings together brands and products that make people’s everyday lives easier and more enjoyable. The strong brands Lechuza and Pon stand for quality, functionality, and a clean design aesthetic. A keen eye for products that offer high user value and distinctive design forms the basis for versatile product lines that reliably reach diverse target groups and prove their worth in everyday life. The name “Hob Creations” pays homage to the founder, Horst Brandstätter, whose courage and innovative spirit continue to shape the corporate group to this day.
