GCA opens applications for 2023 Rising Stars

The Garden Centre Association is looking for nominations for its 2023 Rising Stars programme.

Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, said, “The 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 14 May.

Burks added: “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, 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.”