Squire’s ‘Plant Happy’ Team Reveal the Secret to a Happier Work Life! 

We all know that gardening brings joy – but did you know that being around plants every day can boost happiness too? A recent survey by Squire’s Garden Centres* found that 84% of customers say gardening makes them feel happy and 60% say it helps them connect with nature. For the team at Squire’s, this connection isn’t just a hobby, it’s part of their daily lives, and they wouldn’t have it any other way!

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s and third generation of her family to work in the business, comments: “At Squire’s, we’ve always believed in the power of plants – not just to transform gardens, but to bring happiness and wellbeing to those who work with them. Our teams enjoy sharing their passion for plants and helping our customers. I believe this creates a truly special environment and it’s wonderful to hear how much joy they often get from their roles.”

Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can improve mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and boost creativity, with Squire’s colleagues experiencing this first-hand every day. For many colleagues, being surrounded by plants isn’t just a job, it’s a passion. Kate,  Plant Area Manager at Squire’s in Long Ditton, loves the customer interaction that comes with her role: “I enjoy putting together new plant displays and seeing customers get excited about their garden plans. Watching people connect with plants and the joy it brings them is truly rewarding.”

It’s not just those working directly with plants who feel the benefits. Emma, Restaurant Manager at Squire’s Frensham centre, finds great contentment in the environment in which she works, admitting: “I feel so lucky to work in a place where nature is all around me. The changing seasons bring fresh colours every month, creating such a unique and uplifting setting.”

A family-run, four generation business now with 17 garden centres and café bars, Squire’s Garden Centres prides itself on creating a welcoming and inspiring workplace. The company values its people and the positive working environment shines through. Sean, Garden Furniture Manager at the Washington centre (West Sussex), sums it up: “Being ‘Plant Happy’ runs through everything we do, no matter what role we’re in. Working with both plants and people brings so many positives – it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Squire’s also provides opportunities for career growth and personal fulfilment, as Plant Apprentice, Synthia-Rose, points out. She comments: “Since changing my career to work with plants I’ve felt uplifted. My family and friends have noticed a positive change in me too. Plants are my safe haven – I love them!”

Sarah Squire concludes: “We’re incredibly proud of our ‘Plant Happy’ colleagues and we’re always looking for like-minded people to join us and experience the rewards of working in a place where nature is at the forefront.”

At Squire’s, being part of a wider team is at the heart of everything! Whether nurturing plants in the garden centre, creating delicious dishes in a Café Bar, delivering exceptional customer service in the centre, or working behind the scenes in operations, every role plays a vital part in the business’ success. What’s more, working in a green, nature-filled environment isn’t just rewarding – it’s proven to boost wellbeing, reduce stress and bring daily enjoyment. So if you’re looking for a fulfilling career or part-time role surrounded by plants, fresh air and a friendly supportive team, Squire’s is the perfect place to grow. A rewarding role with Squire’s brings competitive pay, generous staff discounts, long service recognition, health benefits, attendance rewards, childcare vouchers as well as subsidised menu.