UPM Tilhill sells Landscape and Arboricultural businesses to Ground Control Ltd

As a result of a strategic review, UPM has decided to sell the UPM Tilhill Landscape and Arboricultural businesses.

The sale of these two business streams will allow UPM Tilhill to focus their attentions solely on strengthening their forestry and wood sourcing activities in the UK and Europe.

UPM Tilhill is therefore pleased to announce that the new owners of the Landscaping and Arboriculture businesses are Ground Control Ltd, an award-winning commercial landscaping company based in Essex.

It has been mutually agreed by both parties not to disclose the purchase price.

Steve Lavery, Managing Director, UPM Tilhill said: "We are delighted about the announcement and are confident that Ground Control Ltd are the ideal company to develop and take the businesses forward."

Simon Morrish, Chief Executive Officer, Ground Control Ltd said: "As a national company dedicated to landscaping and grounds maintenance, Tilhill's Landscaping and Utility divisions fit perfectly with our strategy and core business. We would like to offer a warm welcome to the UPM Tilhill staff and look forward to a successful future for the Landscaping and Arboriculture businesses".

The priorities for the management teams from both UPM Tilhill and Ground Control Ltd will be to ensure full continuity of service to customers and suppliers in addition to a smooth transition for the 160 staff affected by the sale.

The sale will also see UPM Tilhill fully aligning with UPM's 'Biofore' business objectives therefore enabling full utilisation of the parent company's significant resources and support in the future development of UPM Tilhill.