Wyevale Garden Centres announced it has acquired Wych Cross Nurseries, based in Forest Row, East Sussex.
Wych Cross Nurseries was privately owned by three families and has a core retail floor space of 12,706 square feet, including restaurant space of 2,156 square feet. The garden centre will complement WGC's existing offer in the region and bring the size of the WGC estate to 151 centres.
Established almost 30 years ago, Wych Cross Nurseries developed a reputation as a highly regarded plant centre with a real passion for roses. By the early 2000's Wych Cross were offering one of the largest retail selections of roses in the UK with over 1,400 varieties. The nursery has now consolidated their collection to around 500 varieties which are available to customers both within the centre and online.
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.
Ray Kennedy of Wych Cross Nurseries said: "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."
For more information, visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk