October 2013: The multi award-winning Fermoy’s Garden Centre has become Blue Diamond’s 15th centre with Gilberts Evans brokering the deal.
Current owners Richard and Mike Ford believe that Blue Diamond is the ideal operator to step in now and fulfil the long term objectives. Richard Ford commented “Fermoy’s has been a great success in terms of the synergy between customers, staff and suppliers. This is more than just a take-over. It is a strategic move to help take Fermoy’s to yet another level”.
The site, which is located between Newton Abbot and Totnes has potential to develop and Fermoy’s has been working up a planning application for over three years which was recently submitted with the expectation to develop a modern purpose built unit and create over 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 is well placed to deliver. They are a highly respected group with an innovative outlook within the sector.”
Richard and Mike Ford will continue to own the property and Blue Diamond will take a lease of the garden centre and look to try and develop the site together. “Fermoy’s is one of the best known garden centres in the south west. As a company Blue Diamond has a lot of experience in developing new garden centres,” said Alan Roper, Blue Diamond’s Managing Director.
Mike Gilbert added: “Leases are becoming more popular within the garden centre industry and are perfect for this type of scenario. Both parties want to work together to ensure the future success and viability of Fermoy’s. Leases are becoming more popular within the garden centre industry.”