The Board of Directors of Squire’s Garden Centres have announced that Darran Oakley has decided to retire at the end of next season. He will be moving to Devon during the Summer of 2024.

Darran has a enjoyed a long and illustrious career with Squire’s starting in 1999, when he joined from Kennedys Garden Centres as Group Product Manager. Darran graduated to the Board of Directors in 2011 and has held this position with distinction ever since. Under his leadership of purchasing, the business has tripled its turnover, and enhanced its reputation in the UK Garden Centre Market. 

Chairman Sarah Squire said, “Darran has provided inspirational leadership during his many years with Squire’s, earning the respect of peers and suppliers alike. He has enriched the reputation of Squire’s, as well as successfully leading the Sundries buying of the Tillington group for many years. He has brought a mix of knowledge, wisdom, integrity, and sheer industry to the role. We will all miss him greatly and wish him all the very best in his retirement”.

Darran commented; “I have greatly enjoyed my long career with Squire’s and the many challenges we have faced. I will miss the camaraderie and support of everyone at Squire’s and Tillington but am greatly looking forward to a change of pace and lifestyle.”

Plans to appoint a successor to Darran will be announced shortly.