HSBC Bank's Chris Hare and James Sawley are returning by popular demand to speak at the Garden Centre Association’s conference in January 2027 following the success of their 2026 session.

The duo will deliver a ‘big picture’ view of the macroeconomic landscape to delegates on January 26, was well as a deep dive into the UK retail economy.

GCA Chairman, Ben Harrison says: “We’re very pleased to welcome Chris and James back to our conference podium after they delivered such a popular and perceptive session at our last event back in January this year.

“Their return is in direct response to member demand and reflects just how valuable their analysis of the wider financial picture and retail landscape is for our sector. Understanding the economic environment is crucial for our members and their session will once again provide clear, informed and highly relevant insights.”

Chris is part of HSBC’s European Economics team, focusing on UK and European economic issues including inflation, housing markets and long-term growth trends.

Prior to joining HSBC in 2017, he worked as a UK and global economist at an international investment bank and spent five years at the Bank of England contributing to economic forecasts and advising on the UK outlook.

James is Head of Retail & Leisure at HSBC, where he works closely with retailers and leisure operators across the UK, providing strategic advice, financing solutions and understanding of market dynamics.

With more than 20 years’ experience in corporate banking, including extensive sector specialism, he brings a deep understanding of the opportunities and pressures facing retail businesses today.

One after the other, Chris and James will explore key economic trends, the outlook for the UK economy and the implications for the retail sector, equipping delegates with a clearer understanding of the broader context in which they operate.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks says: “We’re delighted Chris and James are able to join us again. Their presentations at our last conference were so well received by our members. Their sessions in 2027 looks just as interesting and will provide an important overview of the economic landscape and how it translates into real-world impacts for our members. Intelligence like this is vital for planning, investment and long-term strategy.”

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 nearly 230 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.