The Garden Centre Association (GCA) has confirmed the location and dates for its 2027 conference.
 
The GCA’s annual event, organised by Chairman, Ben Harrison, Operations Director for Haskins Garden Centres, alongside the body’s CEO, Peter Burks, will be held in Stratford-upon-Avon from January 24-27, 2027.

Ben explains: “Following the success of our 2026 conference, which received fantastic praise from our attendees, we’re pleased to announce that our next event will be held at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon in January 2027.

“Full details, including our exciting headline speakers, will be shared from the middle of June, when tickets are released. This will be the earliest ticket launch we’ve ever offered and to mark the occasion we’ll have an early bird discount for the first four weeks of sales. While the exact on-sale date is still to be confirmed, it will be announced as soon as the page on the website goes live.

“Our most recent conference welcomed more than 400 members across the two main days and generated extremely positive feedback. Delegates praised the calibre of the speakers, the atmosphere of the event and the many opportunities it provided to network and connect. Many told us the experience left them feeling highly motivated and re-energised, giving them a positive and confident start to 2026.

“Our 2027 conference is shaping up to be a lively and uplifting celebration of everything that’s great about our sector, alongside all the valuable insights given by our inspectors and the presentations from our respected guest speakers, who are motivators and experts that are pertinent to our industry.”

The GCA was formed in 1966 and celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.
 
Peter Burks, GCA CEO, says: “We can’t wait to start our official countdown in June to what promises to be a very special conference.

“During the next six months, we’ll be sharing regular updates as we confirm the date when bookings go live and announce our exceptional speaker programme. In the meantime, be sure to check our website and follow us on socials for the latest updates, and please join the conversation using #GCAConf2027.”

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: www.gca.org.uk