In this episode, we speak to Warren Haskins, Chairman of Haskins Garden Centres. The business is over 100 years old and was established by Warren’s great grandfather, Harry. Haskins, which is now a multi-million-pound business that employs over 600 people, had humble beginnings. It started on a small stretch of land, which the Haskins family rented for £10 a year, selling produce in the UK’s south coast town of Bournemouth. Now the company has five destination garden centres after acquiring its fifth in Farnham, Surrey in 2020. 

We discuss how Warren has developed the business over the years, after taking it on unexpectedly as a result of his father’s sudden passing. We learn how that difficult moment shaped Warren’s life and how he went on to shape the business in a whole new direction too. 

Warren recalls memories from his childhood of playing on the nursery’s land, picking out bedding plants and shares useful business tips such as the importance of a strong team and how hiring the right staff is critical, even for family businesses. 

This episode is a heart-warming account of Warren’s journey and how his relationship with his business has evolved over the years, with a nod also to what the future might hold. 

Enjoy! 

Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/
Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/