Garden glows

DSN Retailing Today, March 22, 2004

New looks in decorative lighting for the garden include elaborate accent pieces that come alive at night, glowing with light provided by battery or solar power.

Plastic garden figurines with battery-powered lights from Art Line are among the company's hottest new product launches. The Garden Light line, first introduced in spring 2003, has since expanded to 17 items. Top sellers are a frog, lighthouse and bunny.

Scott Fischer, sales manager for Art Line, said sales of the garden lights have "exceeded our wildest dreams." From a retailer perspective, a Frank's Nursery buyer reported a "great sell-through" last year of such items.

Solar-powered lights in shapes such as turtles and fairies are popular. The portability of these lights, and the fact that no wiring or energy costs are involved, have made these attractive to consumers.