Otter Garden Centres has broadened its footprint with the acquisition of Whitehall Garden Centre in Whitchurch, near Bristol. This marks the eighth location to join Otter’s expanding portfolio, underscoring its commitment to family values and quality service.
Whitehall Garden Centre, established in 1970 by the Self family, has been a respected name in the industry for over 50 years. Now in its fourth generation, Whitehall’s dedication to customer care, quality, and sustainability closely aligns with Otter’s own philosophy. Otter, founded in 1964 by Malcolm and Marilyn White and currently managed by the third generation of the White family, shares a deep commitment to family-run operations and environmentally responsible practices.
Jacqui Taylor, managing director of Otter Garden Centres, said: “We’ve admired the Self family’s approach to running a successful independent family business for many years. What truly resonated with us was how closely Whitehall’s values match our own—prioritizing family, customers, quality, and sustainability. Their reputation for exceptional plants complements our own offerings. With our expanding nurseries, we’ll be able to provide fresh, home-grown plants to the new Whitchurch centre, something we know customers will appreciate.”
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Otter has assured that all current staff, including the centre manager, will retain their positions with minimal changes to the day-to-day operations at the Whitchurch site.
“We’re excited to welcome the Whitchurch team and customers into the Otter family,” Jacqui added. “We look forward to building strong relationships within the local community and serving loyal customers long into the future.”
Claire Self, director of Whitehall Garden Centres, expressed gratitude: “We thank our dedicated staff for their hard work over the years and wish them all the best as the store embarks on this new chapter with Otter.”
Founded in Ottery St Mary, Otter Garden Centres has grown steadily over six decades, operating locations across Ottery St Mary, Torquay, Plymouth, Lymington, Wincanton, Taunton, Bishopsteignton, and now Whitchurch.
Renowned for growing the majority of its plants, Otter ceased chemical treatments in favor of biological controls over 30 years ago. The company continues to lead in sustainability through initiatives like solar panel installations, biomass boilers, rainwater harvesting, and a transition to peat-free composts.
Remaining a family-owned and operated business, Otter’s leadership includes Malcolm and Marilyn White’s daughters Jacqui Taylor and Cathy White, along with their grandchildren Sabine Jary, Arron Taylor, and Lara White, who play key roles in the company’s ongoing success.