Family run business Griffin Nurseries welcomes South Downs MP for a site tour
Andrew Griffith MP visited Griffin Nurseries in Milland, near Fernhurst, on Friday to see how the family-owned business has grown its site, its team, and its reputation as one of the best specimen plant producers in the UK.
Rupert White, the owner, established the horticultural production nurseries 35 years ago following on from his career in the military. He started the nurseries with just 2 acres and today has over 35 acres. Rupert and his wife Patricia gave Andrew a tour around the business to see the range of plants, trees and shrubs they grow. Much of their stock is sold to trade, although they do receive retail customers by appointment.
The MP was impressed to see this established family-business growing and delivering high quality plants across the country. From landscape gardeners to developers, the Griffin Nurseries are sought after for some of their more unique specimens and spectacular topiary trees.
Andrew and Rupert also spoke about some of the more challenging parts of a running a family business and their experiences with local planning as they expanded site.
Andrew Griffith said: “It was good to meet Rupert and Patricia and their team and to see their fantastic nurseries. It is not easy for small businesses at the moment, but it is great to see this family-run business is investing in its staff and systems to meet a growing order-book. And it is brilliant to know that we have a high-quality South Downs business that is delivering its products nationwide, rivalling lesser-specimens imported from Europe.”