For peat’s sake: RHS faces conservative backlash over Chelsea flower show
Summary
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has experienced financial losses, losing £8.1 million in the year ending January 2025, which raised concerns about its future. Some critics, especially on the conservative side, have blamed changes like moving to peat-free products and a shift away from traditional practices for the issues, while RHS reports more positive recent financial results.Key Facts
- The RHS recorded a net loss of £8.1 million in the year ending January 2025, double the loss from the previous year.
- Financial problems have been linked to external factors like roadworks blocking visits and changes in sponsorship.
- A wealthy couple who funded the Chelsea flower show with over £23 million stopped their support this year.
- The luxury hotel The Newt, a former Chelsea flower show sponsor, opened its own free-entry garden show for children under 16.
- The RHS transitioned to selling peat-free products starting January 2024 to reduce environmental damage.
- Tim Penrose, a traditional exhibitor, was banned from the show after protesting the anti-peat rules and refusing to attend related seminars.
- RHS stated that recent unpublished accounts showed income growth of 7% and a cash profit of £4.8 million after overcoming some challenges.
- The Chelsea flower show faces pressure to find new charity sponsors and balance traditional gardening with environmental concerns.
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