The new owners of Dobbies, Midlothian Capital Partners and Hattington Capital, announce John Cleland as CEO. He will replace Andy King, who has agreed to stay with the business as a strategic adviser to the Board.

John Cleland brings 30 years of leadership experience in retail and consumer businesses. His expertise has been built across food and non-food categories, in the UK and abroad, and has included senior management positions at ASDA Walmart, Somerfield and Maplin.

Andrew Bracey and Barney Burgess introduced John to his new colleagues at the Dobbies Headquarters in Edinburgh yesterday (Tuesday) and also thanked the outgoing Chief Executive, Andy King, for his contribution to the business.

Barney Burgess of Hattington Capital commented: "As one of Britain's leading Garden Centre businesses, it is great news for Dobbies that John is joining as CEO. He will play a pivotal role in the future Dobbies success story. We're looking forward to supporting him as he leads the business through its next phase of growth.”

Andrew Bracey of Midlothian Capital commented: “We're delighted that John is coming to Dobbies. Dobbies is an iconic brand with a great legacy and a bright future. We also want to publicly recognise the role of Andy King who has been a great steward of Dobbies, and will remain with us as a strategic adviser."

John Cleland, the incoming CEO, told his new colleagues: “I’ve always been an admirer of Dobbies. It’s one of the great, heritage brands in British retail. We hope to build on that and create a stronger, market leading company. I am very much looking forward to working with new colleagues to grow the business together in the future.”

Andy King said: “It’s been a privilege to be Chief Executive of Dobbies for the past 3 years. The energy and enthusiasm of colleagues and customers make this a great place to work. I wish the new owners and John Cleland the very best in growing Dobbies and look forward to my new advisory position.”