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NBIS - Nursery Business Improvement Scheme

The Nursery Business Improvement Scheme is a well-established and popular scheme which enables growers of all sizes and scales to come together to benefit from sharing knowledge, feedback, support and business development opportunities.

In this close-knit group (capped at a maximum of 15 members), members can learn from and support each other; providing confidence and network support as they make  important business improvement decisions. The group is run by a specialist industry  consultant who will lead the group in sharing experiences, solving problems, identifying potential product winners and losers and giving and receiving advice on how to make significant business changes. 


The group meets up to four times a year, with off-site meetings and visits to member businesses. A regular and popular feature of every meeting is a round table review of recent trade including a discussion on what is selling well and what is not. A range of other topics are discussed, such as plant sales, legislations changes, sustainability, margin improvement, cost reduction, personnel management and more. As part of this discussion members will, confidentially, share data about their business.

Our consultant

Will Armitage

The group is facilitated by Will Armitage. Will has worked in the industry in one way or another since the 1980's. From running his 175 year-old family business to setting up a boutique garden product brand to chairing and facilitating industry associations, regional business forums and educational trusts, Will has tonnes of experience, knowledge and contacts, and with his relaxed and collaborative approach and his ability and willingness to help others succeed and build on their success makes him an ideal consultant to work with our NBIS members.

Group membership fees

The annual NBIS membership fee for 2025 will be confirmed soon. This can be paid upfront or monthly by direct debit. If you join part way through the year this fee will be calculated on a pro-rata basis. 

There is currently one national group with members working at nurseries of various turnovers and stages of development. You can come along and join us for a free trial meeting. Simply complete the form below and we will be in touch.

Enquiry Form

Please complete the form to register your interest in the NBIS group. If at any point you have any questions or concerns regarding the process, please use the contact details below 

Contact Details