Urban&Civic Acquires Todds Nursery to Enhance Sustainable Development

In a strategic move to bolster its sustainable development initiatives, Urban&Civic, a leading master developer in the UK, has successfully acquired Todds Nursery, a family-run supplier known for providing mature trees, shrubs, and hedging plants. The acquisition, advised by Clyde & Co, was officially announced on July 4, 2025, and aims to enhance Urban&Civic's supply chain while promoting its commitment to environmentally-friendly practices.

This acquisition aligns with Urban&Civic's landscape-led development model, which emphasizes the integration of natural elements into urban planning. According to Simon Gamblin, Corporate Partner at Clyde & Co, this deal not only represents a significant operational enhancement for Urban&Civic but also reflects a broader trend towards sustainability in real estate development. “This was a great opportunity to support a valued client on a strategically aligned acquisition. The deal had important operational and environmental dimensions, and we’re proud to have delivered it smoothly and efficiently,” Gamblin stated.

Todds Nursery, which spans over 72 hectares and boasts a diverse stock of more than 22,000 trees, will provide Urban&Civic with long-term access to high-quality materials, improving cost efficiency and procurement timelines. This move comes at a time when the demand for sustainable landscaping solutions is on the rise, driven by increasing awareness of environmental issues and regulatory pressures.

The acquisition is significant not only for Urban&Civic but also for the landscaping industry at large. As noted by Dr. Angela Roberts, an environmental economist at the University of Manchester, “The integration of specialized suppliers like Todds Nursery into larger development firms is becoming increasingly common as the industry shifts towards more sustainable practices. This acquisition could set a precedent for future collaborations between developers and niche suppliers.”

Furthermore, the deal is anticipated to contribute to Urban&Civic's long-term environmental goals, which include reducing carbon footprints and enhancing biodiversity in urban areas. According to the 2023 report by the UK Green Building Council, integrating green spaces in urban development can significantly mitigate urban heat effects and improve air quality.

Critics, however, caution that while such acquisitions may enhance operational efficiencies, they could also lead to market consolidation, potentially stifling competition in the landscaping sector. James Hudson, a landscape architect and industry analyst, argues that “the market must remain open to a variety of suppliers to foster innovation and maintain competitive pricing.”

In conclusion, Urban&Civic's acquisition of Todds Nursery marks a pivotal step in the company's ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. As the real estate and landscaping industries evolve, such strategic acquisitions may play a crucial role in shaping a greener future for urban development. The implications of this deal extend beyond immediate operational benefits, potentially influencing broader industry practices and setting a benchmark for environmentally conscious development across the UK and beyond.