The Business of Sustainability: Inside Hillier’s Journey to Lower Cost, Lower Carbon
10 Sept 2026
Centre Stage
Leadership
Profit & Revenue
Sustainability
Technology
Business Operations
Hillier isn’t talking about sustainability, they’re proving what it looks like in practice. As one of the UK’s leading growers and garden centre operators and an HTA Sustainability Reference Site, the business has embedded environmental thinking into every part of its operation. From water reuse and renewable energy to materials, carbon reduction and supply chain decisions.
Working in partnership with Planet Mark, Hillier has taken a data-led approach to measuring and reducing its impact, achieving significant results, including double-digit carbon reduction and major savings in water and energy costs.
In this honest session, George Hillier and James Shorey will share what’s actually working across Hillier’s sites, from quick wins to longer-term investments and how sustainability, when done properly, can drive both efficiency and growth. Expect real examples, real numbers and a clear view on what’s worth doing (and what isn’t).
Working in partnership with Planet Mark, Hillier has taken a data-led approach to measuring and reducing its impact, achieving significant results, including double-digit carbon reduction and major savings in water and energy costs.
In this honest session, George Hillier and James Shorey will share what’s actually working across Hillier’s sites, from quick wins to longer-term investments and how sustainability, when done properly, can drive both efficiency and growth. Expect real examples, real numbers and a clear view on what’s worth doing (and what isn’t).
Chairperson
