HTA wins ‘Best Sector Representation’ Award
The Horticultural Trades Association attended the prestigious Trade Association Forum (TAF) Best Practice Awards at Drapers Hall in London. The awards are designed to recognise excellence, innovation and best practice amongst Trade Associations in the UK.
The HTA were delighted to be shortlisted for two awards, recognising the organisation’s delivery of significant member value in the past year.
The HTA’s ‘Let Britain Grow’ campaign, the aim of which is to promote seamless trading post-EU Exit, won the award for ‘Sector Representation of the Year’. The win was a result of government lobbying, and advice and communications to members to support them through post-Brexit changes. We successfully helped to reduce regulatory burdens and prevented millions of pounds worth of costs for members’ businesses. The judges felt we had “achieved genuine impact” and “changed government perceptions”. The HTA were also praised for building long-term relationships with multiple government departments.
The HTA was also shortlisted for ‘Sustainability Initiative of the Year’. The judges were impressed by the “practical guidance to achieve sustainability” and “personalised action plans” allowing members to forge their own paths to becoming more sustainable. They particularly appreciated the way these initiatives tied into our broader profile raising and lobbying work.
This win follows our award in December 2021 for offering the ‘Best Member Support during Covid-19’, presented by the UK Association Awards.
James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications, said: “A fundamental role of trade bodies is representation to government of members’ interests. We’re delighted that our campaign achievements have been recognised, but this accolade was only possible because of members consistently sharing their business experiences on how the Government’s actions have affected them. This engagement was crucial to help us succeed on their behalf. Being a member of the HTA allows businesses to shape our approach and ensure their voice is heard to government.
While we celebrate this achievement, we are cognisant that our work is not yet done. This year myself and the HTA team will continue to advocate for our industry’s needs - not only on the fast emerging 1 July cross-border trade regulatory changes, but on shaping government policymaking around sustainable change to peat removal and seeking access to the necessary labour that our industry needs to grow”.