Celebrating 90 Years of Care, Commitment and Colleagues Who Make All The Difference! 

As Squire’s Garden Centres marks a proud 90 years as a family business, the company has once again shone a spotlight on the people at the very heart of its success – its colleagues – at the annual ‘Make a Difference’ (M.A.D.) Awards.

Hosted by Colin Squire, Chairman Emeritus, and his daughter Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, the special awards celebration brought together colleagues from across the 17-centre, family-owned business to recognise truly outstanding contributions.

For nine decades, Squire’s has built its reputation not only on horticultural excellence, but on genuine care – care for customers, for communities and for one another. The values that shaped the business all those years ago continue to guide it today: kindness, respect, teamwork and a willingness to go the extra mile. The M.A.D. Awards are a recognition of those enduring principles seen in action today.

Each year, nominations are submitted by colleagues and customers, highlighting exceptional moments where individuals or teams have made a meaningful impact. From responding calmly and compassionately in emergency situations, to offering thoughtful support to customers during difficult times, to stepping in to help colleagues when it mattered most.

The celebration lunch saw award recipients thanked for embodying the spirit of Squire’s. Members of the business’ Senior Leadership Team served colleagues during the event, acknowledging their effort and commitment which is so valued.

Sarah Squire – Chairman, Squire’s Garden Centres, comments: “As we celebrate 90 years of Squire’s, we are reminded that our success has always been rooted in our people. The care, professionalism and warmth shown by our colleagues -day in, day out – are what make Squire’s so special.

“The M.A.D. Awards give us the opportunity to recognise those moments of exceptional kindness and commitment that reflect the very best of who we are. My father and I feel enormously proud and privileged to work alongside such remarkable teams.”

Over the past nine decades, much has evolved within the business, but one thing has remained constant – a deep appreciation for the people who bring the Squire’s experience to life.

Among the inspiring examples of colleagues who have gone above and beyond, examples include:

• Going the extra mile on deliveries – a shop-based colleague stepped in to ensure customers received their orders on time, when drivers were unexpectantly unavailable, taking extra steps to exceed expectations and prevent disappointment.
• Supporting in emergencies – a colleague quickly assisted an elderly gentleman who had slipped on an icy path in the road, providing first aid until the ambulance arrived.
• Bringing joy to the community – a colleague visited a children’s hospice to fix a beloved fish tank, helping brighten the day for the young patients who enjoy it during their stay.
• Helping customers recover treasured items – a colleague assisted a customer in locating his late wife’s lost wedding ring, turning a distressing moment into a deeply moving experience.

2025 Winners of Squire’s ‘Made A Difference’ Scheme

*GC = Garden Centre