Dobbies Garden Centres has confirmed that five of its stores – Morpeth, Stapleton, Rugby, Hare Hatch and Havant – are transferring to new ownership during January. It also said that teams at each of these stores will transfer to the new operators.

This follows approval of Dobbies’ restructuring plan in December 2024, which allows the business to focus on returning to sustainable profitability, unlock access to future investment and deliver a strong and well capitalised platform for the business going forward.  

Squire’s Garden Centres announced the freehold acquisition of Hare Hatch Garden Centre, a move that will safeguard jobs and secure the future of the site. 

Harvey Spack Field, the specialist retail advisor, working on behalf of the landlord, KFIM, facilitated the transaction, following Dobbies Garden Centres Limited’s Restructuring Plan. The structure of the agreement allowed the transaction to conclude swiftly, which will enable Squire’s Garden Centres to assume responsibility for the site with minimal disruption.

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, commented: “We have been pleased to work effectively with the landlords to agree a deal, in principle, which secures the future of this outstanding site.  We are working on this as quickly as we can and hope to announce timings in the coming days. 

“We look forward to getting to know the garden centre team and working with them in the future, as well as building relationships with the local community.  We consider there is every opportunity to grow the business significantly in the next few years.”

Matt Simmonds, Investment Manager, KFIM, added: “We’re pleased to support Squire’s Garden Centres in ensuring the continuity of Hare Hatch, preserving both a valued community asset and employment for local staff. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of Squire’s Garden Centres management.”