17/07/2026
🌟 Inspiring the next generation of horticultural talent! 🌟
Earlier this week, our Rising Stars Academy delegates enjoyed an incredible day at Ball Colegrave, one of the industry's leading businesses and a key destination within the GCA's enhanced Rising Stars programme. The visit provided invaluable insight into the innovation, expertise and passion that drive success within horticulture.
The new-look Westland Horticulture-sponsored GCA Rising Stars Academy combines visits to leading industry locations and events with expert-led masterclasses, helping participants develop practical skills in areas including communication, marketing, merchandising and customer engagement.
As our Chief Executive Peter Burks says: “The programme is designed to build confidence, capability and creativity, equipping future garden centre leaders with actionable knowledge they can take straight back to their centres to make an immediate impact.
“Through experiences such as Ball Colegrave, delegates gain first-hand exposure to best practice across the sector while developing the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.”
A huge thank you to Sandy Shepherd and the Ball Colegrave team for their warm welcome and for sharing their expertise with our Rising Stars. Days like these demonstrate the power of bringing together ambitious individuals, industry-leading businesses and hands-on learning opportunities to help future-proof our sector. 🌱✨
