Busy Bee Garden Centre Joins the Blue Diamond Group

Busy Bee Garden Centre, near Ryde, has officially joined the Blue Diamond Group. As the Isle of Wight’s largest garden centre, Busy Bee became the 52nd centre in the group on 2nd October.

Founded in 1987 and run by Chris and Mary Leslie, Busy Bee has developed into a well-known destination for plants, homeware, gifts and the popular Christmas World, which will continue under Blue Diamond ownership. Both the Busy Bee name and Christmas World will remain.

Alan Roper, Managing Director of Blue Diamond, said:
“Busy Bee is a much-loved garden centre at the heart of its community. We are committed to building on its strengths, especially in plants, and look forward to introducing more variety and choice for customers in the future.”

The centre employs around 60 staff, all of whom will transfer to Blue Diamond, ensuring continuity for both customers and employees.

Chris and Mary Leslie commented:
“Busy Bee has been at the centre of our lives for nearly four decades, and we are incredibly proud of what it has become. We’ve always believed in creating a place that brings people together - whether for plants, gifts, or simply a day out. As we retire, we are pleased to be passing Busy Bee into the hands of Blue Diamond, whose focus on plants and customers gives us confidence that the centre will continue to thrive.”

This acquisition reflects Blue Diamond’s continued investment in garden centres across the UK and its commitment to providing customers with a wide choice of plants, products and services.