The new company’s focus will be on “sourcing and providing innovative products and concepts across several areas for the garden centre industry,” according to a statement from Westland.

The venture will operate as a standalone business within Westland, with Davies having full autonomy and decision-making powers. The business will be based initially at Westland’s Alconbury site in Cambridgeshire, using Westland’s infrastructure for start-up.

Davies told GTN Xtra: “Westland are investors in this but we shall have the freedom to do what we have to do.” He expects the business to begin trading early next year.

Davies said: “The aim of the new company is to bring to market a range of new ideas, concepts and products that will help drive the garden centre industry. I am in the process of pulling together a strong team to support me and will have further details in due course.”

Peter Madden, commercial director at Westland, said: “We are pleased to support Nick Davies in this new venture and help him to create this new garden products business focussed on quality and innovation. Nick has a strong track record and knowledge of the garden industry and I wish him and his team every success with this venture.”