GCA opens Worrall Cup entries early
The Garden Centre Association is inviting members to submit their best marketing initiatives for the 2026 Worrall Cup, with entries opening earlier than usual.
The competition opens on September 1 and closes on October 31, giving garden centres more time to prepare submissions before the busy Christmas trading period.
Previously, entries opened in November, leaving members around six weeks to complete their applications over the festive and New Year holidays.
GCA Chief Executive Peter Burks said the earlier timetable responds to the pressures faced by garden centres during their busiest season.
The Worrall Cup recognises marketing campaigns that demonstrate creativity, originality and strong commercial results, while helping to share best practice across the sector.
Current holders Bents Garden & Home will be looking on as other members compete, following British Garden Centres and Gates Garden Centre in second and third place.
Entries will be assessed by an independent panel with marketing expertise, separately from the GCA’s annual inspection process.
Members can support their submissions with photographs, print examples, web links and additional written information, with full entry details available from the GCA.
The winner will receive the Worrall Cup at the GCA Annual Conference, taking place at Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, from January 24 to 27, 2027.
For further information, please visit www.gca.org.uk.