Haskins seeks new site following year of growth

Haskins has recorded solid sales for the last financial year.

The year ended 23 February 2014 began slowly and by April 2013, turnover was £1.6m down against budget and £700,000 lower than at the same time in 2012/13.

But Haskins recovered over 2013/14 with budget deficit ending up 1.5 per cent below expectations.

Total sales climbed by 1.8 per cent in the period to £26.6m. Operating profit fell from £3m to £2.8m but pre-tax profit rose slightly to £3.3m because of higher rental income from concessions.

The accounts said: "The redevelopments in 2011, in addition to the investment in Ferndown in 2008, means the group now has some of the most modern and profitable garden centres in the country and therefore has a strong base for future growth."

Haskins has four south coast centres and has appointed property consultants Johnson Fellows to help find another site.

Source : Matthew Appleby - Horticulture Week
http://www.hortweek.com/