Mower-maker agrees sale and leaseback deal with Hortons

Birmingham property company Hortons has expanded its holdings at Airfield Industrial Estate in Hixon with the addition of a 32,000 sq ft warehouse unit, acquired from manufacturer Allett.

Allett, which makes cylinder mowers, will occupy the unit at the former RAF air base for a further 10 years under the terms of the deal. Founded more than 50 years ago, Allet is described as a global leader in precision mowing technology for sports venues and premium lawns.

Birmingham-based investor and developer Hortons already controlled almost 500,000 sq ft of industrial space, storage compounds and approximately 30 acres of development land at Airfield, purchased by the business in 2023.

The estate is home to an impressive mix of local, national and international occupiers, including JCB, Sandmaster UK, Mec Com, Agrii and Zilmet UK.

Hortons’ wider Midlands portfolio now stretches to more than 5.5m sq ft of industrial, office, retail and leisure property, as the company continues to explore opportunities for further growth.

Richard Walker, management surveyor at Hortons, said: “This strategic acquisition strengthens our presence at Airfield Industrial Estate and complements our growing industrial property portfolio. We see significant potential in the estate and are committed to enhancing its role as a thriving base for industry in Staffordshire.”