Adhan Group busy Blackburn's India Mill

Property business The Adhan Group has acquired Graham & Brown’s former 5.5-acre manufacturing plant in the centre of Blackburn for an undisclosed sum.

The Adhan Group, which is also headquartered in the town, has grown to become one of the region’s largest lettings and sales companies.

It is one of the most active buyers of commercial property in the North, having recently added more than four million sq ft of industrial, commercial and office space to its property portfolio.

India Mill, a modern self-contained manufacturing facility, sits on the established Furthergate Business Park and is a mile away from junction six of the M65.

Adhan says the site will continue to operate as a manufacturing and distribution centre.

Interior design and décor group Graham & Brown announced the sale of India Mill, its traditional wallpaper manufacturing plant, in late 2023, as it evolved into a design-led, brand-led, digital business.

The company has since opened its new digital ‘factory of the future’ at Shuttleworth Mead, Padiham, where it is producing high-quality, design-led, environmentally friendly wallpapers, murals, and wall art.

The factory runs on renewable electricity, is carbon neutral and the leading digital operation in the industry.

Speaking about the acquisition, Chris Henderson of Adhan Group, said: “The addition of this central, self-contained site at the heart of Blackburn is a welcome addition to our portfolio.

“Rental interest is always strong for these types of sites, and we hope to have a new tenant in situ shortly with the site continuing to contribute significant employment to the locality.”

Napthens solicitors advised Graham & Brown on the sale of the property. Partner David Hill added: “India Mill is an excellent addition to the Adhan Group’s property portfolio. The site is impressive and will provide a range of companies with the perfect location from which to operate and grow their businesses.”

Commercial property consultants Trevor Dawson were agents for the site.

Director Jason Rawson advised on the sale. He said: “We were delighted to assist our long-standing client, Graham and Brown, with their successful journey into the digital era by bringing forward the disposal of the 5.5-acre India Mill site to the Adhan Group.

“This is a strategic site for manufacturing and distribution in Blackburn which was reflected in the extensive interest we obtained from Investors, developers, owner occupiers and prospective tenants.”