Bents Garden & Home is celebrating success with two prestigious and widely respected awards; both providing the perfect start to a landmark year as the family owned and run business prepares to celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2027.
Having recently been crowned Best Destination Garden Centre in the North West at the GCA reginal awards, it has also been officially recognised by the 2026 UK’s Best Workplaces for Women and is listed within the top 100 large company category, alongside organisations including Tropic Skincare and Lindt.
Founded in 1937, Bents has grown from Alfred and Margaret Bent selling roses from their front garden, just yards from the Centre's current location in Glazebury, into one of the UK's leading destination garden centres. Both awards recognise Bents continued commitment to its colleagues, who remain at the heart of the family business.
The latest GCA accolade also recognises the continued commitment to quality, innovation and customer experience that have also been fundamental to Bents’ success for almost nine decades.
The regional title follows the GCA's rigorous annual inspection programme, during which member garden centres are independently assessed across every aspect of their business. From plant quality and visual merchandising to customer service, catering and innovation, every department is judged against the highest industry standards.
Following an unannounced inspection, Bents achieved one of the highest scores in the country, securing the title of Best Destination Garden Centre in the North West, along with regional awards for Best Customer Service, Food Hall and Catering.
Matthew Bent, Managing Director of Bents Garden & Home, said: "To receive this recognition from the Garden Centre Association is a fantastic achievement and one we're incredibly proud of, particularly as we prepare to celebrate our 90th anniversary next year.”
The 2026 UK’s Best Workplaces for Women list is made up of employers whose people have told Great Place To Work® UK they work for a place that is inclusive and equitable for all. The 350 companies on the list are committed to ensuring a reasonable balance of women and men across the organisation; removing barriers to women’s career advancement; and creating workplaces where all employees, regardless of gender, can flourish.
Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director of Great Place To Work UK says: “This year’s UK’s Best Workplaces for Women list celebrates businesses making a genuine difference day to day, not just in what they say, but in how people experience work. What matters most is that this recognition comes directly from women working in these organisations, who tell us they feel supported, valued, and able to grow.
“Our research demonstrates that these organisations creating high-trust environments are delivering stronger results, whether in financial outcomes, impact, or service delivery, alongside greater agility and resilience in the face of change. Congratulations to Bents for creating an environment where inclusion is clearly felt in practice.”
Adds Matthew: "Both of these awards reflect the passion, commitment and expertise of every one of our colleagues and I'd like to thank every member of the team for the part they've played in these fantastic successes."
