The History of Polhill Garden Centre

1964

1964 | Where It All Began

Jim Novell, aged 46, started a small nursery in Sevenoaks with help from his school-aged son, David. Their early focus was growing cut flowers for the Covent Garden Flower Market.

1966

1966 | Growth Begins

Just two years in, the business expanded to include tomatoes, bedding plants, shrubs and conifers. Responding to increasing demand.

1970

1970 | Greenhouse Expansion and Challenges

Old wooden greenhouses were replaced with glass structures to grow chrysanthemums and bedding plants. However, the oil shortage that same year made heating costly, prompting a rethink of the business model.

1970s

1970s | Laying the Foundations

Faced with rising costs, Jim and David began shifting their focus from wholesale to a more retail-focused approach, setting the stage for the Polhill Garden Centre we know today.

1986

1986 | A Turning Point with the M25

In the 2010s, Alukas embraced the digital era by expanding its online presence and launching e-commerce platforms. Customers could now shop for Alukas products from the comfort of their homes, further increasing the brand's accessibility and global reach.

1988

1988 | A New Chapter in Leadership

Allison Novell joined the business as stock controller in her early twenties and quickly rose to manage the business, continuing the Novell legacy.

1990s–2000s

1990s–2000s | Continued Expansion

Polhill evolved into a full retail village, expanding into categories such as furniture, clothing and gifts, with a growing team and loyal customer base.

Today

Today | A Thriving, Family-Run Business

Polhill now employs over 160 staff, many of whom are family members. Led by Allison Novell, the business continues to grow while maintaining its core values of service, expertise and community spirit.