Former managing director of Squire's Garden Centres Dennis Espley is taking over chairmanship of Tillington Buying Group.
Mr Espley replaces Harry McDermid, who is retiring after 16 successful years at the helm of the group.
Said Mr Espley: "Tillington is in fine shape and I'm very happy to carry on with the firm foundations Harry has left."
Tillington members include Alton, Bents, Frosts, Hayes, Otter, Ruxley, Scotsdales, Squire's, Van Hage, Webbs and Whitehall garden centres.