Chief executive of the Garden Centre Association Peter Burks is a judge for the Four Oaks New Plant & Product Awards for 2026.
What do you love most about your work?
Most love the people and the plants.
What would you say to young people considering a career in the sector?
It’s a very friendly, inclusive industry that really helps anyone who wants to get on and learn and get involved. It has many roles so somewhere there is something for everyone.
What would be your big ask of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham?
Get rid of business costs and reduce taxation to get money in people’s pockets which they will spend and you will get your tax revenue from that.
What are the most important challenges the plant production industry needs to overcome in 2026?
Plants produced in the UK are superb. Probably nurseries need to consider growing more drought tolerant species.
What are you most looking forward to at Four Oaks Trade Show this year?
Seeing people and plants.
