Dobbies Garden Centres says ‘more people visiting stores more often’ as sales rise 10%

The firm, which is headquartered at Lasswade, near Edinburgh, said revenues had risen 10 per cent to £221.8 million in the year to March 1, compared with the year before. Underlying earnings of around £500,000 were described as a “significant” year-on-year improvement.

Dobbies, which can trace its roots back to 1865 and has 53 sites, said its growth strategy had focused on improving and extending product ranges, refurbishing stores, enhancing restaurant menus and “improving the overall customer proposition”. During the year, the firm invested £4m in refurbishing seven stores while introducing a new £1.5m food hall concept across the estate.

It said both initiatives had performed ahead of expectations, supporting customer engagement and commercial performance.

Chief executive David Robinson said: “We have made positive improvements against our key metrics, and we have remained focused on the areas that matter most to our customers - our stores, plants and product ranges, restaurants and overall experience. That focus has delivered improved performance and a return to profitability.

“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we are seeing more people visit our stores more often to shop, dine and take part in events and community activities. Our customers donated £235,000 to our partner charity, Alzheimer’s Research UK, following the launch of our new community partnership during the year,” he added.

“Looking ahead to [the new financial year], we are continuing to see a year on year improvement in our key metrics and progress against our strategic plan. We are continuing to invest in our estate with redevelopment plans underway in our Galton, Woodbridge and Lisburn garden centres. This illustrates the potential of this great business and I remain excited for the future.”