Florist and Homeware Shop for Sale in Ditchling East Sussex

Description

Occupying a prime position within the highly sought-after village of Ditchling, this exquisite florist, homeware, and gift shop is situated within the stunning surroundings of the South Downs National Park, approximately seven miles north of Brighton and nine miles south of Haywards Heath. Established within the village for the past eight years and under the current ownership for the last two years, Poison Ivy has developed into a highly regarded and well-supported lifestyle business, enjoying an excellent reputation throughout the local community and surrounding areas, together with strong repeat custom and consistent footfall.Floristry currently accounts for approximately half of the business turnover, with the remaining income generated through an impressive selection of gifts and homeware sourced from respected national and local suppliers. Product lines include premium candles, locally produced wines, artisan ceramics, soaps, furniture, and distinctive lifestyle pieces. The vibrant village environment, year-round tourism, and regular local events continue to support the ongoing success and appeal of the business. The business is now offered for sale due to family commitments.The PremisesOccupying a prominent trading position on the village’s busy main high street, this beautifully presented florist and homeware business is offered in excellent condition throughout. The premises form part of a historic and characterful building featuring impressive original features and high ceilings, creating a bright, spacious, and distinctive trading environment.The retail area is elegant and thoughtfully designed. To the right-hand side is a substantial serve-over counter currently used for bespoke floral arrangements and gift wrapping. The main shop floor has been stylishly fitted with bespoke custom-made shelving displaying a carefully curated range of gifts and floristry products, complementing the charm and character of the premises.To the rear of the shop is a useful stock room together with staff kitchenette and WC facilities. The premises further benefit from an enclosed rear yard providing additional storage space, along with a large shed suitable for ancillary storage and seasonal stock requirements.TurnoverThe business is owner-operated, with the current owner actively involved in the day-to-day running alongside one part-time florist. Current trading hours are Tuesday 10:00-14:00 and Wednesday to Saturday 10:00-16:00, with approximately eight weeks of annual closure for holidays.Despite the limited trading hours, the business generates annual turnover in the region of £45,000, evenly split between floristry and gift sales.There is significant scope for further growth and development. Opportunities exist to expand the supply of premium flowers to local boutique retailers, gift shops, pubs, restaurants, hotels, and corporate clients. The recently launched online offering also provides strong potential to further enhance the brand’s digital presence.Additional growth opportunities include collaboration with third-party platforms such as Interflora and Etsy, alongside the introduction of Sussex-inspired products, curated hampers, and bespoke gifting ranges. Further expansion potential exists through increasing wedding and funeral floristry work, as well as developing seasonal workshops and floristry experiences including wreath-making classes and private events, creating multiple additional revenue streams throughout the year.Premises LicenceThe premises licence permits the retail sale of alcohol.General RemarksCharming and well-established village business benefiting from strong support from the local community together with surrounding villages and towns. Offered with the security of a new lease, the business presents excellent potential to further develop wedding and funeral floristry work while also increasing online and social media activity.In addition to the core floristry trade, the business offers a popular selection of retail gifts including locally sourced ceramics, artisan products, and homeware. Seasonal workshops, particularly Christmas wreath-making events, have proven highly successful and offer clear scope for expansion throughout the year.The sale includes valuable fixtures and fittings, presenting an excellent opportunity to acquire a thriving lifestyle business within an attractive village setting.TenureThe premises will be offered on a new 8-year full repairing and insuring lease at a commencing rental of £13,000 per annum until November 2027, increasing to £14,000 per annum thereafter. A rent review and tenant-only break clause apply at year four.RatesThe premises currently benefit from small business rate relief, resulting in no business rates payable at present. The current rateable value is £11,750 per annum. Prospective purchasers are advised to make their own enquiries for verification.PriceOffers are invited in the region of £30,000 plus stock at valuation for the valuable lease, equipment, premises licence, trade fixtures, fittings, and chattels. Estimated stock value is approximately £10,000.Legal FeesEach party will be responsible for their own legal costs. The purchaser will also be responsible for the landlord’s reasonable legal fees.ViewingStrictly by appointment only through the vendor’s agents.Energy Performance CertificateThe premises have been rated Band E. Full details are available upon request.DisclaimerNeither the vendor nor the agent provides or implies any warranty regarding the suitability of the premises for any specific use or compliance with statutory regulations. Equipment, apparatus, fittings, and services have not been tested, and interested parties should seek independent verification through their solicitor or surveyor.VATAll prices and rents quoted are exclusive of VAT. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves independently regarding the VAT position of any transaction.Mortgage and Financial PlanningAssistance may be available in arranging finance for the acquisition of this or other businesses, subject to status.Property Ref: 6947MThese particulars are believed to be correct but their accuracy is not guaranteed and they do not form part of any contract.