Alistair Lorimer loses his fight against cancer - Updated

Alistair Lorimer’s career started at Hurrans after completing his studies at Reading University. Among other roles he managed the Heathrow Garden Centre and it was there that he established his link with Ken Allen. 

This was followed by a spell as a management consultant for Malcolm Scott Partnership. He advised several leading chains including Kennedys and worked often in the USA. He had a particular interest in training.

Alistair then re-joined Ken Allen who had left Hurrans to set up Jardinerie. He managed the Hampton-in-Arden branch at the innovative group of garden centres.

When Ken Allen retired in the late 90’s and Jon Kitching became chief executive, Alistair became head of buying. 

Following Jardinerie’s acquisition by Blooms of Bressingham in 2001, Alistair rose to be buying and marketing director at the AIM listed garden centre group.   

In 2007 Blooms was acquired by Sir Tom Hunter’s Wyevale and Alistair decided to leave a few months later to set up as a retail development consultant advising garden retailers of all sizes in the UK and Ireland.

Alistair was also an active member of the Woking Wildlife trust for over 20 years. He rose to become Vice Chairman.

Alistair Lorimer’s advice commanded wide respect within the industry. Colleagues have described him as popular, dependable and fun to be with.

His website says the philosophy behind Alistair's consultancy business is always to provide commercial, profit focused and practical support to retailers delivered with enthusiasm, humour, honesty and integrity.

Alistair left his wife, Alison, and two sons.

A service of celebration of Alistair Lorimer’s life will be held at St John’s Church Aston Cantlow on Tuesday 11 th July at 2pm.

Please wear bright colours. No Flowers. Donations to be divided between the Shakespeare Hospice and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust may be left at the service or sent C/I A E Bennett & Sons, 34 Sheep Street, Stratford- Upon- Avon. CV37 6EE.