The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) strengthened its board with several key appointments that were ratified at its AGM that took place at Glee on September 11.

During the Annual General Meeting (AGM) the following appointments were made:

Boyd Douglas-Davies from Hillview Garden Centres as vice-president of the board
Matthew Bent from Bents Garden & Home as a director of the board
Richard Pyrah from Kelkay (GIMA President) as director of the board
Brian Fraser from Oakover Nurseries as director of the board

Commenting on the appointments HTA president Adam Taylor said: “We welcome these new appointments which help to build a board for the future ensuring that all sectors of the members are well represented. As a membership association it is vital that members’ voices are heard and I would encourage everyone to talk with members of the Board, HTA Council or Senior Leadership team to ensure your points are put across.”

Members from across the sector attending the AGM received the finance reports and annual review and re-appointed BDO as auditors. Dougal Philip, trustee of the Benevolent Fund provided an update on activity, including a case study, and encouraged all to help raise awareness of this valuable and underused resource which is available to HTA members and their staff.

In the light of the challenges to the industry this year, such as the slow start to the season, uncertainty around Brexit and increasing costs the decision was taken to apply only an inflationary increase to subscription rates for 2019, which was approved.