Gates buys freehold to Stapleton garden centre site

The Gates family has completed the acquisition of the freehold at its new Stapleton site, securing the long-term future of Gates Woodlands Hinckley.

Woodlands Garden Centre, located in Stapleton near Hinckley, was established by Malcolm Joyce in 1978 and developed into one of the UK's leading independent garden centres. Following its acquisition by Wyevale Garden Centres in 2002, the site became part of the Dobbies estate in 2018.

On 1 February 2025, Gates Garden Centre adopted the lease of the business and relaunched it as Gates Woodlands Hinckley, the name paying tribute to the site's heritage and reputation during its independent years. Since then, significant investment has been made in the centre, including a comprehensive refurbishment programme and the creation of the highly successful Fred & Ivy’s Restaurant.

Throughout the transition, Gates retained the existing team and all shop-in-shop concessions, ensuring continuity for customers and preserving valuable local employment.

The purchase of the freehold represents a major milestone for the business, providing long-term security for its now 130-strong team and creating a solid platform for future investment. Ownership of the site will enable the Gates directors to continue enhancing the centre's facilities, infrastructure and customer experience, supporting sustained growth and ensuring the business remains a key destination for gardeners and shoppers across the region for many years to come.

Nigel Gates commented: 

"We are delighted to now have ownership of Leicestershire’s two leading garden centres plus the Woodlands Nursery which ensures sourcing continuity for much of the high quality annual and perennial planting across both the sites. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the fantastic team whose hard work, commitment and passion have been instrumental in the successful transformation of Gates Woodlands Hinckley.’

Jack Gates said:

"it has been incredibly rewarding to see the centre flourish, providing an inspiring and welcoming destination for gardeners, shoppers and families from Hinckley and the surrounding communities. This investment reflects our confidence in the future of the business, and we look forward to strengthening our ties with the local community, supporting gardeners throughout the seasons, and continuing to enhance the experience for our customers for many years to come.’