A FAMILY-RUN landscaping business has blossomed into a £1m turnover concern in just two years and is aiming for further growth. AJM Dream Gardens, based in Consett, County Durham, was set up by entrepreneur Martin Boyle, who already ran a natural stone business. The business, operating from a two-acre site at Leadgate, with more premises at Annfield Plain, has received advice on its growth from Business Link North-East. Mr Boyle’s business team includes daughter Joanne, who is responsible for finance and administration; niece Dawn Hart, who handles sales; stepson David Coe; great nephew Paul McCourt and Dawn’s husband Nicholas. He said: “Nowadays people are definitely prepared to spend more on their gardens. “We are currently creating gardens at 60 homes for the elderly and it’s rewarding as they bring so much pleasure to residents who have had to give up their own gardens.” Landscaping is AJM’s biggest market but there is growth in the maintenance side of the business. “Our first year's turnover was £100,000 and this has jumped to nearly £1m in our second,” he said. “We are taking on two landscape architects and designers to bring more of our services in-house. “The marketing advice really opened my eyes to the potential out there.” Business Link North-East’s David French said: “Our workforce development team and Bridgehouse Business Consultants helped AJM up-grade its financial systems, develop its marketing and website and train the team.” | 
Have your say on the issues affecting you and your business in the North East >>>
Sign up to our Daily Emails and receive the latest business news and features delivered to your inbox >>>
Subscribe to our RSS nebusiness news feeds >>>
Rising from trainee solicitor to managing partner in 11 years at commercial law firm Muckle LLP (formerly Robert Muckle) Stephen McNicol has achieved more than most could expect from an entire career.
Carole Beverley, of the Entrepreneurs' Forum, on entrepreneurial activity in the North-East and how to be a success in business...
