Wyevale adds to garden centre empire

Wych Cross Garden Centre in Forest Row, East Sussex has been sold to Wyevale Garden Centres.

The nursery operates from a 1.1 hectare site, has been run by an independent company for the past 27 years. The garden centre has a nationally recognised specialism in roses, with 400 varieties are stocked.

Kevin Bradshaw, chief executive of Wyevale Garden Centres, said: "Following the successful acquisition of Sidmouth Garden centre earlier this month, I am thrilled to welcome Wych Cross Nurseries to the Wyevale Garden Centres family. Of particular interest is their wonderful rose business which we look forward to preserving and nurturing.

"This acquisition is a great example of Wyevale Garden Centre’s strategy in action. Following every acquisition, we work hard to retain the individual heritage of each garden centre.  Wych Cross Nurseries is widely loved by its loyal customers who visit for its breath-taking site in the heart of Ashdown Forest and for its remarkable plant offering. The centre is a welcome addition to our group as it supports our growth strategy and enables us to fulfil our goal of combining the very best of local and national offerings across our garden centres.

"WGC’s acquisition of Wych Cross Nurseries is a testament to our commitment as a company to grow and nurture the overall size of the UK gardening market. Through investment and innovation we will enhance Wych Cross’ existing offering and cater to the growing customer base.

Wych Cross director Ray Kennedy said "The wide experience and industry knowledge that Simon Quinton Smith brought to the valuation of our business and the subsequent negotiations with the Wyevale Garden Centre Group enabled shareholders to maximise their expectations whilst illustrating the potential still locked within the company. Selling any business is an emotional rollercoaster and Simon proved to be, both, a wise counsellor and a pragmatic deal-maker."

Kennedy added: "WGC’s success in bringing the latest retail initiatives to local garden centres whilst preserving their natural charm and their commitment to investing in people and infrastructure leaves us confident that the group will maintain our high calibre service. WGC’s determination to retain our unique and diverse selection of plants and roses provides us with the knowledge that this change is an exciting new chapter for Wych Cross. We are happy to know that our skilled and exceptional staff will be embraced into a company that values their contribution and expertise."

Wyevale Garden Centres is due to buy at least two more centres before Christmas. It bought Sidmouth Garden Centre last week.

Source: Horticulture Week.

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