Will Armitage named new HTA President, Board expands

UK – The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has announced Will Armitage as its new President following their Annual General Meeting at Horticulture: The Conference on 25 September 2024.

Armitage takes over from Alan Down, who completed his term and now serves as Immediate Past President. Jane Lawler, previously a Board member, has been named Vice President.

In addition to the leadership changes, two new directors have been appointed to the HTA Board: Mark Pitman, Managing Director of Wildlife World, and Mike Burks, Managing Director of The Gardens Group.

Both Pitman and Burks are highly regarded in the horticultural industry and are expected to contribute valuable insights and experience to the association.

Pitman, who has long focused on promoting biodiversity through innovative products at Wildlife World, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am excited to join the HTA Board and look forward to contributing to the organization’s efforts in driving forward meaningful changes within the sector.”

Mike Burks, known for his work with The Gardens Group, also shared his thoughts on the appointment, “This is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders. The HTA has always played a critical role in supporting our industry, and I am thrilled to be a part of its future.”

Will Armitage, the newly appointed HTA President, spoke of his commitment to ensuring the continued success of the association.

“I saw this as an opportunity to give back to the association that has given us so much,” Armitage stated. “My pledge to the members is to ensure the association remains as strong, if not stronger, than it is today.”

Armitage’s previous two years as Vice President have prepared him for the role. He emphasized the importance of supporting members, adding, “I would like to thank the members for voting me in and to everyone at the HTA for making my past two years as Vice President both interesting and rewarding.”

Jane Lawler, now the Vice President, also shared her vision for the future. She has been actively involved with the HTA Board in recent years and is eager to take on a more prominent role.

“It’s been a journey of discovery as an HTA Board member, and I’ve learned a great deal about the critical work the association does on behalf of its members,” Lawler remarked.

“I am very pleased to now take an even more active role, and I look forward to working with the team to continue that work.”

The HTA is also celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, marking over a century of support for the UK horticulture sector.

The association has been instrumental in advocating for industry needs, highlighting the sector’s economic contributions and spearheading sustainability initiatives.

The association’s achievements include a GBP 28 billion (USD 37.4 billion) contribution to the UK economy and supporting over 674,000 jobs. This year, the HTA has emphasized its goal of increasing the sector’s value to GBP 41 billion (USD 54.8 million) by 2030, advocating for reduced financial burdens on SMEs and promoting sustainability within the horticultural industry.

Armitage and his new team are expected to continue leading the HTA toward these goals, ensuring that the sector remains a vital part of the UK economy.