Garden Centre Association members are being invited to nominate staff for the organisation’s 2023 Rising Stars programme sponsored by Westland Horticulture.

The GCA is requesting nominations by May 14, 2023.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, says: “We’re delighted to announce that the application process for our 2023-24 Rising Stars programme is now open and that Westland Horticulture is once again supporting and backing this exciting initiative.

“The Rising Stars programme is a fantastic opportunity for anyone nominated, as they’ll be able to develop their skills, while being mentored by experts in the gardening industry. It’s like no other training they are likely to receive and everything they learn will be brought back and used at the garden centre where they work, to the benefit of everyone.

“If garden centres feel they have a team member who they feel is a ‘rising star’ within their organisation, they need to put them forward today.”

Each candidate should, in the nominator’s opinion, be a rising star, or have the potential to be one. They should have a passion or desire to contribute to this year’s programme’s key topic, which is the environment and sustainability.

They should hold a position below management level and also be available to attend a series of virtual and face-to-face workshops throughout the year.

They need to have access to financial data too, including sales and cost prices, be able to demonstrate a drive and commitment that shows they wish to be developed, and have sales ideas for growing an area of the business in a sustainable or environmental manner.

Applications, which are available from info@gca.org.uk, should be completed and sent to laura@gca.org.uk before Sunday, May 14, 2023.

Peter adds: “The best performing finalists will be asked to the final workshops in the series and will then be invited to attend our annual conference in January 2024, where they will present their project idea and how it has progressed to the attendees. Delegates will then vote for a winner. GCA Inspector and Rising Stars programme mentor, Gordon Emslie will provide coaching in presentation skills in advance of the conference.”

The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide.

Through sharing information and its inspection programme, the GCA helps members to achieve high standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability.

For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.