Mr Fothergill's has acquired the intellectual property and trading assets of GroBox Ltd for an undisclosed sum.

The online-based business offers easy-to-grow, complete seed-based gardening solutions, such as a flower, vegetable and herb gardens in a box and roll-out seed mats.

GroBox products are made from recycled materials and are themselves completely recyclable or break down once planted in the soil. The packaging of its products for children were designed by schoolchildren close to the company's current location in Hyde, Lancashire. 

GroBox's previous owner Jayne Lawton remains in a consultancy capacity. 

Announcing the acquisition, Mr Fothergill's commercial director Tim Jeffries said: "There is a synergy between GroBox and our core products, we like their green credentials and the brand will be a valuable addition to our online presence."

Right: Jayne Lawton and Tim Jeffries shake hands on the deal.