Vilmorin, the owner of Suttons, has announced it is to sell its seeds and garden products division after the results of a strategic review.
Vilmorin is the fourth largest seed company in the world, and its brands for the home and garden market across Europe (France, Germany, UK and Poland) include Oxadis, Flora Frey, Suttons and CNOS Vilmorin.

In 2006-2007 estimates put consolidated sales at €142m (£99m) with a net profit of €8m (£6m)

A statement from Vilmorin said the sale would allow it to invest in professional markets.