GCA reveals full programme for Annual Conference 2027
The GCA has unveiled its 2027 conference programme, featuring prominent speakers, industry insights, networking, awards and practical sessions for garden centre members.
The Garden Centre Association (GCA) has unveiled the full programme for its 2027 annual conference, taking place on January 25 and 26 at the Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon.
The two-day event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and speakers covering retail strategy, consumer behaviour, data, economics, leadership and business performance.
GCA Chairman Ben Harrison, Operations Director at Haskins Garden Centres, said the programme brings together speakers offering different perspectives and practical insights across the sector.
Monday’s programme includes an HTA update, GCA Trust and International Garden Centre Association summaries, inspection best practice and commercial performance sessions. Keynote speakers include Olympic champion Sir Jason Kenny CBE, consumer behaviour expert Kate Hardcastle MBE and former Sainsbury’s CEO Justin King CBE.
Tuesday features Clive Humby OBE, co-founder of dunnhumby and creator of Tesco Clubcard, alongside HSBC economist Chris Hare and Head of Retail & Leisure James Sawley.
Entrepreneur John Vincent MBE, co-founder of LEON, will discuss purpose-led business, leadership and resilience, while Reverend Richard Coles will offer perspectives on trust, ethics, community and human connection.
The programme also includes the GCA AGM, awards presentations, best practice showcases, networking opportunities, the Associates’ Exhibition, gala dinner and evening entertainment.
GCA CEO Peter Burks said: “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.”
The conference regularly attracts hundreds of members from across the UK. Further information and tickets are available through the GCA members’ section.
For further information and to buy tickets, please visit our members’ section here.