Highland garden centre Simpsons expands into north-east Scotland after acquiring the Happy Plant site
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Simpsons Garden Centre has acquired an Aberdeen-shire garden centre for an undisclosed sum.
Happy Plant, which is based in Mintlaw, was established in 1984 and is one of the largest garden and gift centres in the north-east. It is a 4 Star Scottish Tourist Board Garden Centre.
The firm’s 30 employees will transfer to Simpsons under their existing terms and conditions and the new owners have promised more jobs will be created as part of Simpsons' plan to invest in the long-running business.
Plans for the site include upgrading the centre’s facilities including the restaurant and introducing new garden and furniture product ranges.
The acquisition is seen as positive in the current climate and a testament to the strength of the gardening industry.
Gardens and gardening have given many a welcome escape during lockdown, providing a positive outlet for mental and physical health with young and old enjoying the benefits of their outdoor space.
Andrew Simpson, managing director of Simpsons Garden Centre in Inverness, spoke of his appreciation of current owner Moira Smart.
He said: “Happy Plant is a long-running business that has been part of the Mintlaw and wider Aberdeen-shire community since the early 1980s. Moira and her team have created a fantastic local business and we are excited at the prospect of continuing their work and building on their achievements.
“We plan to refurbish the garden centre, including the restaurant, where we will be launching a new menu with the focus on quality local ingredients. At the same time, we intend to expand the range of garden and furniture products on offer, again with the emphasis on quality and the type of products that keen gardeners expect.
“We will also be creating new employment opportunities at the garden centre, which is further good news for the local community.”
Mrs Smart said: “I have been following the success of the Simpsons team for a number of years and I am delighted to leave the Happy Plant team in the hands of a younger owner who is full of enthusiasm and great ideas.
“Like Happy Plant, Simpsons is very much part of the local community with a focus on customer service, experience and knowledge, while offering a wide range of quality products.
"It’s an exciting time for the team, and I believe for the many loyal customers, who I would encourage to support the new and improved version of Happy Plant. I hope to be a regular customer and I look forward to seeing the garden centre going from strength to strength.”
