Blue Diamond, the UK’s largest garden centre group, has acquired Busy Bee Garden Centre near Ryde, the Isle of Wight’s biggest garden centre. The handover took place on Thursday (2nd October), making Busy Bee the 52nd site in the Blue Diamond portfolio and bringing the group’s estimated annual turnover to £400 million.

Founded in 1987, Busy Bee has been run for decades by Chris and Mary Leslie, who grew it into one of the island’s best-known destinations for gardening, homeware and gifts. After rebuilding the site 12 years ago, the couple oversaw turnover growth to £4.6m and are now retiring.

Blue Diamond’s Managing Director, Alan Roper, confirmed that the Busy Bee name will remain, as will the ever-popular Christmas World, a highlight of the island’s festive season.

“Busy Bee is a much-loved garden centre at the heart of its community,” Alan said. “We are committed to building on its strengths, particularly in plants, and believe we can create even more variety and choice for customers. With these enhancements, we see potential for sales to reach £7m+.”

The centre employs around 60 staff, all of whom will transfer to Blue Diamond, ensuring job security and continuity. Senior managers from Blue Diamond have visited the site to meet the team and outline future plans.

Reflecting on the handover, Chris and Mary Leslie commented: “Busy Bee has been at the centre of our lives for nearly four decades, and we are incredibly proud of what it has become. We’ve always believed in creating a place that brings people together — whether for plants, gifts, or simply a great day out. As we retire, we are delighted to be passing Busy Bee into the hands of Blue Diamond, whose passion for plants and commitment to customers give us every confidence that the centre will continue to thrive for years to come.”

The acquisition, which has been under discussion for several years, reflects Blue Diamond’s ongoing commitment to investing in quality garden retail across the UK.