BGC presses Priti Patel for political support
Last month, British Garden Centres hosted a visit from opposition MP, Priti Patel, and underlined the need for urgent political support as rising costs and regulatory pressures continue to squeeze the horticultural sector.
During a visit to Stanway Garden Centre in Essex, Managing Director Amy Stubbs highlighted the impact of higher employment costs, increased National Insurance, and post‑Brexit supply chain burdens, with some businesses absorbing up to 25% additional import costs. She reiterated the industry’s call for a UK‑EU SPS agreement to remove plant health certification requirements and reduce border delays.
Need for a realistic timeline for peat
Stubbs also warned that the transition to peat‑free growing media is adding significant strain, with some growers facing up to 37% higher input costs. She stressed the need for a realistic timeline, investment support, and consistent rules for imported plants.
Priti Patel expressed support. “It is deeply worrying to hear how rising employment costs, higher business rates and escalating energy prices are placing unsustainable pressure on businesses in the horticultural sector. Many of these businesses are already operating on tight margins, and Labour’s policies are making it even harder for them to plan for the future."
The HTA’s Policy and Public Affairs Manager, Samantha Smith, said site visits like this help MPs understand the sector’s economic and environmental value.
British Garden Centres, the UK’s largest family‑owned group with 75 centres and more than 3,500 employees, continues to advocate for measures that protect jobs and ensure a sustainable transition for growers and retailers alike.