Yorkshire Garden Centres appoints new buying director
Yorkshire Garden Centres has appointed Charlotte Watson as its new buying director as the Bradford-based group prepares for continued growth across its multi-site operation.
Mrs Watson will lead the buying team across all categories at the group’s seven garden centres. An experienced buyer and retail consultant, she previously held senior buying roles at ASDA and Wilko and will oversee key seasonal ranges while representing the business within the Tillington Buying Group.
She will also play a key role in shaping the group’s sourcing strategy, developing its teams and supporting long-term commercial growth. Her appointment will support Sharon McNair’s transition from commercial director to retail director, following a structured handover period.
Mrs Watson said she is looking forward to improving processes and working closely with suppliers to introduce new and exciting products for customers. She added that recent home renovations had inspired her enthusiasm for garden and outdoor living ranges.
Managing director Mark Farnsworth said the newly created role reflects the group’s focus on strengthening its buying capability and range proposition. He praised Sharon McNair’s contribution over the past decade and said splitting the commercial and retail roles would support future growth.
The Yorkshire Garden Centres group operates Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley Garden Centres, along with Dean’s York and Scarborough and the recently acquired Pennine Garden Centre in Huddersfield.