​Behind the Green Curtain: Exploring the Landscaping Industry with BALI

In the latest episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Andrew Fitzmaurice sat down with Wayne GrIlls, CEO of the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI), to discuss the breadth, challenges, and evolution of the landscaping sector in the UK.

What BALI Does

BALI is the trade association for landscape contractors, garden designers, suppliers, and an extensive network of training providers. With around 950 accredited members and a further 400 associate and student members, BALI works across the full spectrum of landscaping - from domestic gardens to large-scale public projects and commercial schemes.

“From small domestic gardens to public realm projects, the scope of landscaping is vast. Some projects, like a private 37-acre garden, can be worth nearly £10 million,” explains Wayne.

BALI supports businesses of all sizes, from owner-managed SMEs to companies employing thousands. Their focus is on practical systems that work - whether a business has ISO accreditation or just a filing cabinet at home.

Advocacy and Industry Standards

Wayne highlights BALI’s role in lobbying for green space standards and ensuring the landscaping industry is considered from the start of development projects. They work closely with government and collaborative bodies to improve planning processes and green infrastructure.

Plant health has also become a major focus. BALI’s involvement with DEFRA and the Plant Healthy Scheme ensures UK landscaping businesses maintain strong standards for plant quality, protecting the industry from pests and diseases.

Navigating Market Challenges

The landscaping sector has faced volatility in recent years, from COVID-19 booms to Brexit-related supply issues, and rising costs for materials, labour, and waste management. Wayne explains that many companies have become more resilient by focusing on running their business strategically rather than reacting to crises.

“Some companies have had to absorb increased costs temporarily, but learning to pivot and adapt is key. Cash flow is often more critical than profit margins in these scenarios.”

BALI also provides support through hardship funds and guidance to help members navigate changing regulations, from employment law to environmental standards.

Wayne’s Journey to Landscaping

Wayne’s career path is as diverse as the industry itself. Starting as a trained chef, he spent years in hotel operations and HR before moving into awarding bodies across sectors like textiles, animal care, and waste management. After a stint at Lantra, a land-based awarding body, he joined BALI 15 years ago, bringing extensive training and business development experience to the landscaping sector.

“The grass really is greener in landscaping,” he jokes, reflecting on a career spanning multiple industries.

Key Takeaways

• Landscaping is diverse: From small gardens to multi-million-pound commercial projects, the sector spans a wide range of skills and scales.

• Standards matter: Accreditation, plant health schemes, and practical systems help businesses deliver quality work consistently.

• Resilience is key: Market volatility, rising costs, and regulatory changes require businesses to adapt strategically.

• Support networks are vital: Trade associations like BALI provide guidance, training, and advocacy to ensure members thrive.

For anyone curious about the landscaping industry, Wayne’s insights show a sector that is complex, innovative, and essential to creating sustainable green spaces in the UK.

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