The former owner of independent furniture retailer Grampian Furnishers, Royce Clark, has revealed it was the ‘hardest’ decision of his career to sell the company he has run for over 20 years.

Fellow Scottish independent retailer Gillies of Broughty Ferry previously announced the acquisition of Elgin-based Grampian Furnishers, which took effect from 1 June. (Read more here).

Following the announcement, Royce Clark, Managing Director at Grampian Furnishers, said that now was the right time to sell with the business in strong shape and performing well with plenty of opportunity for future growth.

“I let go of my baby which is most definitely the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I’ve worked in GF for over 30 years, 28 of those full time and have been running it myself for 23 years, so a fair shift!

“My long-term dream of creating my own purpose-built store became a reality back in 2018 after many years of obstacles and objections, the last seven years have really been a rollercoaster of a ride. But I’m pleased to be passing on our family business to Gillies who are another family owned and run business with similar values and history to GF.

“I’m told over on the book of face some people are saying we must have been in trouble that we sold out, but the truth is quite the opposite. The business was trading very well and thankfully showed how robust it was during both Brexit and Covid, hence why the Gillies group approached us and convinced me to sell up. They have most definitely bought a successful business with a great team and loyal customer base behind it and will only help to further develop and grow it.

“As most on here will know every business is for sale at a price and why set up your own business if the end goal is not to sell out?

“Thank you to all those who have helped along the way, far too many to mention, but it certainly wouldn’t have been possible without my right hand man of nine years George Stobo, who I’m certain has a big part to play in the future of the business.”