YoungHort founder Jack Shilley has worked at the centre for four years and Longacres wants to take him on full-time. "That plant knowledge is difficult to find," said Fionda. "A lot of customers come in just for information. We're looking for people with a passion who are 16-24."
Longacres pays more than usual apprenticeship salaries and national minimum wage, she added. "If you want the right people you have to pay the right money and allow them to grow."
Meanwhile, Longacres' new site in Shepperton is to have its planteria revamped.
