June 16, 2016 NEWS RELEASE
One of Brandon’s oldest businesses set to close its doors
For Immediate Release – Patmore Garden Center and Nursery has announced that they will be closing the business permanently this summer
. Marci Bomford, current owner and horticulturalist, said that there were many factors that came into play when the decision was made to shut down the business.
“The costs involved in operating a greenhouse business are exceptionally challenging. Rising costs of things such as inputs, heat, labour and property taxes are all big components. Plus, the buildings and greenhouses are over 40 years old and in need of major repair and renovation,” said Bomford.
n addition, Bomford said that things have changed significantly in the business world since Patmore’s originally opened over 133 years ago and that it’s much more challenging in today’s consumer market for small, local businesses to survive.
“The increase in garden center presence in large, box stores has been a significant factor. Plants and other products that you used to be able to only find at specialized garden centres are now available everywhere and at loss leader pricing,” said Bomford.
Patmore Nursery Sales has been in business in Brandon since 1883. Henry Patmore assisted in greening this part of the world by contributing to the planting of street trees, shelter belts and to the development of the Patmore Green Ash species.
Bomford purchased the business in 2012 and has worked hard to ensure that quality products and outstanding service were part of the shopping experience for local gardeners.
“I am a professional horticulturist and my dream and passion has always been to run my own garden center and nursery. We all poured our hearts into Patmore’s, but it was also about quality of life and family balance. It is certainly the end of a dream for many of us,” said Bomford. “I am so thankful to all the customers who have supported Patmore's for all these years. They are the reason we’ve stayed in business so long and it has truly been an honour to assist them in all of their gardening needs.”
Patmore Garden Center and Nursery is scheduled to close for good on July 9. Customers are encouraged to use outstanding gift certificates prior to that, as they are only are valid while the business remains open.
A final Closing Out Sale will start on June 18th. All inventory will be 50-75% off and everything must go. All sales will be final; cash or debit is preferred as there will be a 3% charge for credit card use.
The new land owners will take possession of the property at the beginning of September, but they have no intentions of operating a garden center.
For more information or to contact regarding an interview: Marci Bomford marci@patmorenursery.com 204.728.1321
