The coveted Gold Rose Award was presented to Hillier Nurseries on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, during a ceremony at IPM Essen in Germany by Linda Hoogendoorn-Veelenturf, CEO of MPS Group – the main sponsor of the Awards. Established in 2009, the AIPH IGOTY Awards recognise best practices in horticulture by the world's leading ornamental plant nurseries and celebrate the expertise and energy they bring to horticulture.

Hillier Nurseries’ success is rooted in blending traditional craftsmanship with scientific precision. More than 20,000 trees are hand-budded and grafted each year by multi-generational growers, ensuring exceptional quality and resilience. At the same time, Hillier invests in advanced technology, including a climate-controlled growing house with sensor-led irrigation and DEFRA-funded water management projects, improving crop consistency while reducing water and energy use.

In addition to the Gold Rose Award, Hillier Nurseries also won the Finished Plants and Trees category, presented by Jack Goossens, AIPH Vice-President, and the Sustainability category, presented by Alison Jobic, Key Account Manager for Agraya.

The Jury commented: “Hillier Nurseries Ltd demonstrates outstanding leadership through its long-term commitment to plant quality, innovation, and sustainable nursery practices. Their influence on horticultural excellence and the wider landscape industry makes them a truly deserving IGOTY winner.”