The full programme has now been unveiled for the Garden Centre Association’s 2027 conference – showcasing a diverse line-up of speakers and sessions designed to inform, inspire and support members.
Taking place on Monday, January 25 and Tuesday, January 26 at the Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, the two-day event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and high-profile speakers.
GCA Chairman, Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, Ben Harrison, who is organising the conference with GCA CEO Peter Burks, explains: “We’ve brought together a fantastic mix of speakers, each bringing a different perspective and area of expertise, and covering everything from retail strategy and consumer behaviour to data, economics and leadership.
“The programme combines big-picture thinking with practical insights, covering everything from the economic outlook and data strategy through to leadership, retail performance and customer behaviour. It’s a really strong line-up and we’re confident there will be something of real value for everyone attending.”
The conference opens on Monday, January 25, with sessions including an HTA update and GCA Trust and International Garden Centre Association summaries, alongside insights into inspection best practice and commercial performance.
The Monday programme also features keynote sessions from Olympic champion Sir Jason Kenny CBE, who will share lessons from elite sport on resilience, performance under pressure and teamwork; consumer behaviour expert Kate Hardcastle MBE, who will explore the psychological shifts shaping modern shopping habits and the future of retail; and former Sainsbury’s CEO Justin King CBE, who will provide practical strategies on leadership, transformation and competing in fast-moving markets.
Tuesday’s programme features a standout speaker line-up, beginning with Clive Humby OBE, one of the world’s leading pioneers in customer data science. As the co-founder of dunnhumby and the originator of Tesco Clubcard, he revolutionised how retailers use customer data and famously coined the phrase ‘Data is the New Oil’. His session will explore how businesses can unlock the value of their data to better understand customers and drive growth.
Also taking to the stage are HSBC experts Chris Hare and James Sawley, returning by popular demand after delivering a highly valued session at the previous conference. Chris, an economist specialising in inflation, growth and the UK economic outlook, and James, Head of Retail & Leisure with deep sector expertise, will deliver a ‘big picture’ view of macroeconomic trends alongside a focused analysis of the UK retail landscape and its implications for businesses.
Entrepreneur John Vincent MBE, co-founder of the award-winning LEON restaurant brand, will share insights drawn from building and transforming a purpose-led business. Known for his people-first leadership style and his work supporting organisations through challenging periods, including the pandemic, he will provide practical strategies for navigating financial pressure and strengthening business resilience.
Reverend Richard Coles will bring a very different perspective, drawing on his unique career spanning pop stardom, the Church and broadcasting. A highly engaging speaker, he is known for his wit, warmth and thoughtful take on topics such as trust, ethics and community, offering valuable insight into leadership and human connection.
In addition to speaker sessions, the programme includes the GCA AGM, awards presentations, best practice showcases, networking opportunities and social events including the gala dinner, Associates’ Exhibition and evening entertainment.
Peter Burks, GCA CEO, concludes: “Our annual conference is always a highlight of the year for our members and the 2027 programme is shaping up to be one of our strongest yet. It offers a great balance of insight, inspiration and networking opportunities.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming members from across the country for what promises to be a highly engaging and valuable two days.”
The GCA’s annual conference regularly attracts hundreds of members from across the UK, offering opportunities to hear from leading speakers, gain industry insight and network with peers.
The leading industry body represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide and, through sharing information and its inspection programme, helps members achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.
For further information and to buy tickets, please visit the members’ section of www.gca.org.uk.
