Flying Brands makes £4.3m acquisition

Flying Brands, the Jersey-based home shopping group, has bought Garden Bird Supplies (GBS) for£4.3 million.

GBS sells online and via mail-order catalogues. Food for wildlife makes up 65 per cent of the retailer's offer, which also includes accessories. In the year to June 30, the business generated turnover of£3.8 million and pre-tax profits of£700,000.

Flying Brands chief executive Mark Dugdale said: 'We outlined our strategy to grow by acquisition and are delighted. Garden Bird Supplies is a high quality business and its integration into the group will help smooth out the volatility of Gardening Direct Sales.'

The UK wild bird food market is estimated to be worth£150 million a year and is believed to be growing.