Doff Portland is boosting its presence in the garden care category with the acquisition of Lorbex.
Established 30 years ago as a supplier of bonsai trees to garden centres, Lorbex has since developed its expertise in house plant care, supplying products including specialist feeds, growing media and accessories. The company counts the leading garden centre groups amongst its customer base. The acquisition will extend Lorbex's access to technical products and allow it to expand its range.

Funding for the deal has come from B7 Ventures, whose investment strategy aims to drive innovation across new developments in the home and garden market.

Helen Broderick, whose mother, Barbara Lockett, founded Lorbex, will remain as managing director of the company, which will be operating as a subsidiary of the group.

She commented: "The acquisition by Doff means I can fulfil my passion to grow the business whilst continuing to deliver great quality products and service. We will continue our focus on specialist products for the garden centre market."

Matt Jones, managing director of manufacturer Doff Portland, added: "With Doff looking after the manufacturing and upstream supply chain, Helen will be able to focus on her aspirations to deliver a wider product range and scale up distribution to specialist retailers. We really look forward to working together as we continue to build the group into a multichannel home and garden business."