A tree nursery in Sussex has become 100% employee-owned following its sale to a newly created Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
English Woodlands supplies an assortment of tree and shrub species to a range of clients, including private individuals, farmers and landowners, landscapers, developers, conservation and environmental bodies, parish and district councils and many local authorities and public bodies.
The choice to become an EOT is prompted by a “want to safeguard the independence of English Woodlands for the future whilst acknowledging the success and expertise” of its team, says founder Michael Hardcastle. Managing director, Simon Johnson and sales director, Jo Carter will continue to lead the business, while shareholders have sold their shares to the EOT, but remain ‘fully committed’ to the business.
Hardcastle goes on to say: “We all feel this is a very positive step forward which recognises the commitment and capabilities of our staff who now become co-owners and share in the success of our special business”
Read more at prolandscapermagazine.com