West Sussex Growers’ Association celebrates 100 years of horticulture

A century of growth and innovation is being celebrated by the West Sussex Growers’ Association (WSGA), which marks 100 years of supporting horticulture in the county.

Founded in 1925, the association represents more than 50 businesses, employing over 10,000 people and contributing more than £1 billion annually to the economy. Its members produce a significant share of the UK’s tomatoes, peppers, herbs, lettuce, soft fruit and ornamental plants, many from long-established family-run businesses.

Throughout its history, the WSGA has guided members through national challenges including the Land Settlement Association scheme of 1934, the ‘Big Freeze’ of 1963 and the Great Storm of 1987. It has also played a role in introducing innovation to the industry, with West Sussex being home to the first European nursery to use a computer in horticultural operations in 1967.

Today the association continues to promote technological advancement, supporting automation, digital projects and education. Chairman Richard Hopkins said the WSGA remains focused on inspiring the next generation, highlighting careers in horticulture to thousands of schoolchildren and launching a pilot apprenticeship scheme to secure the future of the sector.