A steady stream of acquisitions by Wyevale Garden Centres over the coming weeks and months could actually lead to a smaller but stronger independent trade, according to Guy Topping (pictured above), of the successful Barton Grange Garden Centre near Preston.

The UK's biggest garden retailer recently bought three businesses in quick succession, the latest being Podington Garden Centre at Wellingborough on Monday. This aquisition followed those of Trelawney@Ashford (North Devon) and Raglan Garden Centre (Monmouthshire) to take Wyevale's property portfolio up to 144.

And there's speculation in the industry that the company could soon reach the 150 mark with the aquisition of a garden centre group in the south of the UK. One potential vendor approached by GTN Xtra yesterday said: There are always rumours. I can't say anything more.

Guy Topping thinks that Wyevale's drive towards an expanding portfolio does offer independent retailers with opportunities: "Wyevale are killing the true independents! Their genuine blandness is sending so many people through our doors we are struggling to cope. 

"Car parks are rammed, coffee shops are jammed and Christmas display areas are crammed.

"Wyevale need to ease off on the acquisitions to give us chance to expand our centres to cope with the extra demand."

Guy added: "I don't see any let up, however, as ageing owners panic sell whilst they can before Mr Hands sees the light and realises what a tired property portfolio he has on his books. 

"The meltdown at Tesco is also likely to lead to an off-loading of non-core activities so Dobbies will very likely be next to go.

"This all spells disaster for suppliers who are going to struggle without a listing at the all-conquering empire formerly known as TGCG. 

"A strong independent trade is vital to retain a sensible supply base and without that the 'indies' will struggle to source an interesting product range that generates a point of difference.

"I imagine we'll see a steady stream of acquisitions leaving a smaller but stronger independent trade in the middle term."