Chartered surveyors Quinton Edwards is marking 35 years as the UK’s foremost expert in the sale and valuation of garden centres, horticultural nurseries and farm shops – and is forecasting huge opportunities in the sector for investors willing ‘to buy small and build big’. With family leisure becoming an increasingly popular and profitable market for the industry, companies investing in food halls and farm shops, restaurant and coffee shops, children’s soft play and even adventure activities can reap the rewards of running successful retail and leisure one-stop destinations.
Director Simon Quinton Smith of Quinton Edwards said “I believe there is huge scope for new entrants to come into the industry, who can start small and grow their independent businesses over the coming years. It is widely recognised that having successful independents is important to ensure diversity and continued innovation within the sector. The large groups obviously offer lots for customers but innovation tends to start at the grass roots level with smaller, independently-owned businesses.”
Concluding Simon said, “It has been a fascinating 35 years for the industry and we have enjoyed supporting our clients through the many changes and advances that have taken place in the sector over those years. The future is looking extremely positive for garden centres, horticultural nurseries and farm shops and we are excited to be a part of this evolving and exciting market.”
