Global Consultancy Director Josh McBain is set to captivate members of the Garden Centre Association (GCA) with his visionary presentation on ‘The Future of Garden Retailing’ at the upcoming 2024 GCA Conference, scheduled to take place from January 28 to 31, 2024.
As the keynote speaker on Monday, January 29, Josh McBain will delve into his extensive expertise to provide valuable predictions and perspectives on the future of garden centers, serving as the central theme for the 2024 conference.
Will Blake, the Chairman Elect for 2024/25, highlighted Josh’s credentials, stating, “Josh McBain, Global Consultancy Director at Foresight Factory, played a pivotal role in leading the research for the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group’s ‘Growing a Green Economy’ report in 2021. This report underscored the industry’s potential to drive UK economic growth. Additionally, Data IQ magazine recognized him among the top 100 most influential individuals in Big Data in the UK.”
Since joining Foresight Factory in 2012, Josh has been instrumental in shaping the company’s perspectives on sustainability, retail, technology, and consumer trends. His involvement in expanding trend analysis has led to collaborative efforts with industry bodies and global brands, resulting in a diverse range of reports, from the future of Ornamental Horticulture to insights into the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
With a decade of experience, Josh has been a regular presenter at horticultural industry events, contributing to forums such as the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), Garden Industry’s Manufacturers’ Association (GIMA), and the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH).
GCA CEO Peter Burks expressed anticipation, stating, “We’re really looking forward to hearing what insights Josh can offer us all to help us drive our industry forward and so it continues to prosper in the future. This year’s conference is very much about the way ahead and how we evolve and cover all the opportunities available to us, as well as ensuring we’re doing all that we can do with regards to sustainability too.
“To find out more about our 2024 conference, please visit our members’ section on our website. There is also a dedicated email for any queries members, and those wishing to book, may have: conference@gca.org.uk. If non-members would like to join us, so they can attend, please email us via info@gca.org.uk. Until the end of November 2023, we’re also offering a 10% off discount to early bookers.
“There are other discounts available for garden centres who have not been to our conference before and for Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) members too.”
The GCA, representing over 200 garden centers nationwide, facilitates the exchange of information and maintains high standards in customer service, plant quality, and reliability through its inspection program.
The 2024 GCA Conference is scheduled to take place at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel near Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Interested participants can secure their spots by visiting www.gca.org.uk.
