An expert on Retail & Leisure for HSBC is presenting on retail trends at the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) Conference at Carden Park Chester next month.

James Sawley, the bank’s Head of Retail & Leisure, is speaking at the GCA’s 60th anniversary year Annual Conference on Tuesday, January 27.

GCA Chairman Elect and Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, Ben Harrison explains: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming James to the stage to hear all he has to say about retail trends and how these will impact on our industry.

“He supports retailers and leisure operators including garden centres across the country, providing financing solutions, strategic advice and assistance with everyday banking needs. HSBC’s expertise gives him valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities available and we’re sure he will be a very interesting addition to our roster of speakers in January.”

James began his banking career in 2004 as a graduate trainee after earning a degree in Economics from The University of Sheffield.

With more than 20 years’ experience as a corporate banker, including 15 years specialising in the sector, he has worked across leveraged finance, loan syndications and structured debt finance.

 Peter Burks, GCA CEO adds: “James will be joining us for our economy slot on the Tuesday, January 27, along with his HSBC colleague, Chris Hare, who is a Senior Economist for Global Banking and Markets. Together they will give our members some very useful insights into the current economic situation and will share their expertise on future trends. All this information should help our delegates with their financial strategies for the coming year and beyond.”

The 2026 GCA Conference takes place at Carden Park Chester from January 25 until 28. For further information and to book tickets for the 2026 GCA Conference, please visit https://gca.digitickets.co.uk/.