Hard landscaping supplier Global Stone based in Colchester, Essex, has acquired Digby Stone (Digby Trading Ltd) in Halesowen, Birmingham. 

Digby Stone was established in 2008 by Darren and Claire Digby and has become a leading supplier of natural stone and porcelain paving in the UK.

Darren Digby, who will remain the Managing Director of Digby Stone under its new ownership, says: “We have built a very strong and loyal customer base during this time but recognised that we needed to strengthen our supply chain to retain consistent high levels of customer service.

“The constant challenge facing Digby Stone moving forward was to secure continuity of supply through a combination of product and shipping.

“We see this [acquisition by Global Stone] as an exciting opportunity that secures the long-term interests of our personnel and customers.”

Julian Wood, Managing Director of Global Stone, says:  “I have known Darren for many years and look forward to working with him and his team.”

Harsh Kalani, Owner Director of Global Stone, said the acquisition is consistent with Global Stone’s long-term growth strategy and further strengthens its presence in the UK.

While 2020 was a difficult year for many stone importers, with Indian sandstone in particularly short supply and much of Europe shut down due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Global Stone says it benefited from controlling its own natural stone supply chain and being able to maintain continuity of service to existing customers while also taking on new customers that were struggling to get supplies from elsewhere.

Global Stone has also expanded into the rapidly growing market for hard landscaping porcelains. It sources its stone and porcelain from  Europe, Asia and South America.