Mid-October has been earmarked for completion of the Blue Diamond group’s takeover of Fermoys in South Devon.

Owners Richard and Mike Ford said they believed Blue Diamond was the ideal operator to fulfil their long term objectives. The Fords are to retain ownership of the property and will stay to help develop the business while Blue Diamond take a lease on the centre.

Richard Ford said: “This is more than just a take-over, it is a strategic move to help take Fermoy’s to yet another level”.

The site, between Newton Abbot and Totnes, is the subject of a current planning application for a modern purpose built unit that would create more than 30 new jobs. “Blue Diamond Group approached us earlier in the summer; they like the business as it is now and can see the potential” continued Mr Ford. “That potential will require significant investment and Blue Diamond are well placed to deliver. They are a highly respected  group with an innovative outlook within the sector.”

Blue Diamond’s managing director Alan Roper said his company had a lot of experience in developing new garden centres, “Our approach of concentrating on a garden centre’s core horticultural values enables us to offer something different from other retailers. We have a somewhat unique approach to garden centre development. Blue Diamond garden centres are designed to ensure that plants remain at the heart of the business.”

Mike Gilbert of Gilbert Evans, who brokered the partnership, said leasing was becoming more popular in the garden centre industry. “Leases are perfect for this type of scenario” he said. “Both parties want to work together to ensure the future success and viability of Fermoys.”