Book in July and enjoy 10% early bird discount

THE Garden Centre Association (GCA) has chosen Growing a Better Future as the main topic for its 2026 annual conference, as special early bird bookings go live in July.
The conference at Carden Park Chester from 25 through 28 January focuses on sector profitability, sustainability and innovation.
GCA chairman elect and operations director of Haskins Garden Centres Ben Harrison, conference co-organiser with Association CEO Peter Burks, explained: “We decided this year to make our members aware of our key theme much earlier than normal, as well as launching bookings much earlier too [1 July 1].
“We’re also offering an early bird 10% off discount for those who want to get ahead and book during July. There are additional discounts available for members of the Young People in Horticulture Association this month too, he confirmed.
“Our 2026 conference promises to be special, as we’ve a few surprises in store,” Ben continued. “Our venue, which we’ve exclusive use of, was refurbished not long ago and is smart, comfortable and inviting. It even has a new spa that delegates can book to use separately from the conference if they wish.”
The GCA will announce an “informative, inspiring line-up of motivational and entertaining speakers” from September onwards, he added. “We’ve two top-notch, high profile, celebrities taking to the podium – both household names, who look set to bring a new energy to proceedings.”
The event will also provide the opportunity for everyone to socialise with horticultural industry friends, colleagues and associates. “For the first time, we’re not having the usual conference fare on the Monday evening but an authentic Indian meal with a local Indian restaurant taking over for the night.
“Our fancy dress theme is ‘food from around the world’ and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone’s ideas for this. Giving people more time to think about it, we hope they’ll come up with some even more amazing costumes than normal.
“The band Fake Tan are back by popular demand for the Monday night too. So, it all promises to be great fun in the evenings, as well as for the main sections of the conference.”
CEO Peter Burks said: “Booking is now open via the members’ section on our website www.gca.org.uk or via https://gca.digitickets.co.uk/.
“We’ve also launched our sponsorship slots, so if any companies are interested in sponsoring the whole event, an award or a small section of proceedings, we’d love to hear from you, please get in touch with me via peter@gca.org.uk.”
The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationally. Through sharing information and its inspection programme, the GCA helps members achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.