Industry experts, leading political figures, a meteorologist, an economist, and experts in global foresight, communication, and organisational behaviour make up the speaker lineup for the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA) Horticulture, The Conference, later this month.
One of the industry’s annual flagship gatherings, Horticulture, The Conference aims to inform and support environmental horticulture businesses as they prepare for the future. Held at London’s iconic Barbican Centre on Thursday 24 September 2026, this year’s conference will feature insightful discussions from keynote speakers and experts, covering diverse topics such as the value of green spaces; how climate change is impacting the sector; emerging risks, opportunities, and new trends; and how businesses can create connection across generations and teams.
The Speakers and Sessions
The day will start with a forward look covering global trends through to our economic and political environment, in Signals from the Future. Pippa Goodman, a leading expert in global foresight from NextUp, will cover an in-depth look at sociological, technological, legal and environmental trends, emerging risks, as well as the opportunities and what they mean for the future of UK environmental horticulture businesses.
The second part of the session will feature economist Matthew Swannell, Associate Director at Oxford Economics. With over two decades of experience in economic forecasting and policy analysis, Matthew will explore the current state of the UK economy, key economic indicators to watch over the short and medium term, and their implications for environmental horticulture. As part of Unpacking the Economy: the headwinds and tailwinds set to affect horticulture, he will also examine likely trends in consumer and public spending, labour market conditions, and how these are likely to affect opportunities and risks for the industry.
After the break, Laura Loveridge and Samantha Smith – The HTA’s Market Research Manager & Policy and Public Affairs Manager – will launch The Value of Green Spaces, the third report in the HTA’s ‘Value of’ series. Drawing on new public polling and evidence from across the UK, the report demonstrates how green spaces can help tackle extreme heat, flooding and pressure on the NHS, while supporting healthier communities, biodiversity and economic growth. It also highlights inequalities in access to green space and sets out an eight-point action plan for the government to better protect, expand, fund and integrate green infrastructure.
The environmental theme continues with Creating the Climate for Green Spaces, featuring broadcast meteorologist and Fellow of the Royal Meteorological Society Laura Tobin, who will deliver the opening address. With her expertise and dedication to weather and climate science, she will offer insights into our future climate. Laura will then join a panel discussion alongside Baroness Natalie Bennett, Green Party Peer who holds an Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) Fellowship in Horticulture, and Jonathan Whittemore, Commercial and Business Manager at Johnsons Nurseries Ltd and chair of the HTA’s Ornamentals Management Committee. This panel of leading voices from politics, horticulture and meteorology will be moderated by Jennifer Pheasey, the HTA’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs, and will explore how green infrastructure can help the UK adapt to a changing climate, build resilience and improve our quality of life.
The afternoon session
After lunch, the second half of the day kicks off with an insightful session, Employment & People – Generations at Work, with the keynote address from Dr Anthony Klotz – Professor of Organisational Behaviour at the UCL School of Management in London. Anthony will explore the forces reshaping today’s workforce, from evolving employee expectations and engagement challenges to workplace culture and retention. He will share practical insights on creating more sustainable, fulfilling workplaces and building a workforce equipped to thrive.
Anthony will then join an In conversation with… Hosted by Fran Barnes, the HTA’s Chief Executive. This session will blend external expertise with sector‑specific insight, covering topics such as what Gen Z expects, what older generations need, and how the sector’s business culture can evolve. The other speakers will be Shazia Ejaz, Director of Campaigns at the Recruitment and Employment Federation (REC) and Henil Vashi, Horticultural Advisor at Robin Tacchi Plants.
Shazia has experience in government communications, management consultancy, and a range of business and political campaigns. She has led on campaigns to tackle skills shortages, champion flexible work, and promote inclusive recruitment. Henil contributes to production across multiple nursery sites, supports staff development and innovation, and is passionate about the industry’s future and creating opportunities for the next generation. Recognised for his contribution to the future of ornamental horticulture, Henil was named HTA Young Grower Under 35 in 2024 and Young International Grower of the Year by AIPH in 2026.
Delegates will then hear from leading political figures: Jenny Riddell-Carpenter MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), and Conservative MP Robbie Moore, Shadow Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, who will reflect on the value and importance of environmental horticulture in individual political updates.
Rounding off the day will be Ben Hanlin, who will close the conference with his keynote speech. As an award-winning speaker who helps businesses boost performance through better communication and stronger human connection, Ben will engage and energise delegates and leave a lasting impression.
Elia Johnston, Director of Membership and Marketing at the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), said:
“Delegates are in for a treat this year, with what I believe to be our strongest lineup yet. It is important for us to create a programme that features a wide range of guest speakers who can cover a full spectrum of topics, such as our changing climate, the value of green spaces, and the trends and opportunities for businesses that can support future growth.
“We take pride in the opportunities we provide for our delegates to network with colleagues from across the sector, and we are confident that this year’s programme will inform, entertain, and support environmental horticulture businesses while inspiring them to take action and continue to thrive.”
Later that evening, a celebratory dinner, hosted by comedian and broadcaster Ed Byrne, in the Barbican’s Garden Room, will recognise excellence and innovation across UK environmental horticulture. (Tickets sold separately). Winners of the prestigious HTA Grower of the Year Awards will be announced, and one person will be awarded the Pearson Memorial Medal, honouring their special contribution to the industry.
To book tickets and find out more about Horticulture, The Conference, visit hta.org.uk/conference.
