UK growers win big at international awards

UK growers win big at international awards

• Herefordshire-based Allensmore Nurseries wins Gold for Sustainability
• Majestic Trees’ Eliot Barden wins Young International Grower of the Year

Two UK growers have been recognised in major categories at the International Grower of the Year Awards in Germany, with Herefordshire-based Allensmore Nurseries winning Gold in the Sustainability category and Majestic Trees’ Eliot Barden being named Young International Grower of the Year. Both beat competition from across the globe to claim their awards.

They were entered into the international Awards following their wins at the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA’s) national Ornamental Grower of the Year Awards, which took place in Birmingham last September.

The International Grower of the Year Awards, organised by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), took place at the IPM Essen trade show in Germany on Tuesday 24 January. The Awards recognise best practice in environmental horticulture by growers and nurseries from around the world.

The wins see the UK’s environmental horticulture sector recognised by an international jury, with winners in other categories coming from France, Colombia, China, Canada, Italy, Poland, Chinese Taipei and the Netherlands.

Commenting on the wins, Chairman of the HTA, James Barnes said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Allensmore and of Eliot, and we're thrilled their work has been recognised on the international stage. Their wins represent global recognition for the truly excellent work that is being done in our sector, work which is instrumental in helping the UK to meet its environmental goals.”

Based in Herefordshire, Allensmore Nurseries is a family-owned grower and supplier of ornamental plants to supermarkets, DIY stores, and garden centres across the UK. Allensmore is a supporter of the HTA’s Sustainability Pledge, which helps HTA members to build sustainability into every aspect of their business.

The Young International Grower of the Year Award, presented in partnership with Jungle Talks, recognises “vibrant individuals, aged 25-40, who will lead the industry into the future.” Eliot Barden, Production and Education Manager at Majestic Trees, was selected as the winner after interviewing against other finalists.