HTA onboard new Non-Executive Directors to drive growth and innovation in UK horticulture
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has welcomed three new Non-Executive Directors to its Board, marking a significant step in reinforcing the strategic leadership and governance of this key organisation within the UK’s environmental horticulture sector. Jacqui Prior, Brett Avery, and Martin Rowe were ratified at the HTA Annual General Meeting held last month, each embarking on a three-year term aimed at shaping the future direction of the association, which represents over 1,400 businesses across garden retail, growing, landscaping, design, manufacturing, and supply.
The HTA Board combines Non-Executive Directors with the executive roles of Chief Executive Fran Barnes and Chief Financial Officer Stan Owen. The Non-Executive Directors play a critical role in bringing external knowledge, experience, and oversight to advise, challenge, and support the executive, as well as help agree on the organisation’s business plan. Their role extends beyond governance to championing the HTA and the wider industry to members and external stakeholders, underscoring the association’s position as a leading voice for a green and growing sector.
Jacqui Prior, a finance professional with more than 30 years of experience and current director at Farplants, one of the UK’s largest outdoor plant growers, expressed enthusiasm about her new position. Speaking to the association, she said, “I am excited to join the HTA board. I look forward to applying my knowledge and expertise while acting as an ambassador for both the HTA and the wider environmental horticulture sector. I recognise the challenges and opportunities in the horticulture industry and hope to assist the HTA in continually developing to meet the needs of our members.” Her financial acumen and experience with operational and compliance frameworks, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), are expected to be invaluable for the board.
Brett Avery, who brings over 25 years of business leadership experience and currently serves as Group CEO of the Arboraco Group, a major player in British horticulture known for Alba Trees—the UK’s largest supplier of cell-grown trees—highlighted his understanding of the sector’s commercial needs. “Having spent nearly ten years in the horticulture industry, I’ve gained valuable insight into the needs of growers and the customers they serve. I’m honoured to join the HTA team and look forward to contributing to the organisation’s continued innovation and helping guide future growth and development within the industry,” he said. Avery’s previous roles on HTA committees and as Vice President enrich his familiarity with the organisation’s workings and its membership base.
Martin Rowe completes the new trio, bringing 40 years of horticultural experience as Director of HortiNet, a consultancy supporting growers, retailers, and investors. He is also noted for co-founding YouGarden.com, which grew to a turnover of £40 million. Rowe’s extensive background in consultancy, supply chains, and e-commerce is anticipated to support the HTA’s efforts in adapting to evolving market dynamics and enhancing member services.
HTA President Will Armitage welcomed the appointments, commenting, “Jacqui, Brett, and Martin bring a wealth of knowledge and experience across leadership, growth, business development, and finance. I’m confident they will positively impact the HTA and ensure it remains a trusted voice for members.” Their addition comes as the association continues to provide political representation, commercial support, insights, and member collaboration. The HTA also manages the National Garden Gift Card scheme, which secures about £40 million in consumer spend annually, underscoring the significant economic presence of the UK’s environmental horticulture industry.
The arrival of these new Non-Executive Directors coincides with the departure of former board members Adam Taylor, Matthew Bent, and Brian Fraser, who have been publicly thanked by the HTA for their service and commitment. This transition highlights the HTA’s ongoing commitment to refresh its governance with expert leadership capable of steering the association through the opportunities and challenges ahead for the sector.
The appointments and initial board meeting reaffirm the HTA’s mission to support and advocate for the horticultural community, helping ensure sustainable growth and innovation within an industry increasingly central to environmental and economic agendas in the UK.