Dobbies has received approval to close 12 stores as part of a restructuring plan aimed at securing future profitability.
- The Court of Session in Scotland approved the plan, allowing Dobbies to exit leases of 10 underperforming sites.
- Two locations, Morpeth and Stapleton, will transition to new operators, ensuring continued service in those areas.
- Antrim’s flagship store will remain open after an agreement with its landlord, defying initial closure plans.
- The effort aims to impact 465 employees out of 3,600, as Dobbies seeks sustainable growth and investment.
Dobbies, the well-known garden centre chain, has confirmed the closure of 12 of its stores following the approval of a significant restructuring plan by the Court of Session in Scotland. This decision marks a strategic move to exit from leases of 10 loss-making sites, allowing the company to focus on more profitable ventures.
Two other locations, Morpeth and Stapleton, are set to be taken over by different garden centre operators. This move ensures that local communities will continue to have access to garden centre services, despite the closures. Such transitions aim to maintain the local economic ecosystem and customer satisfaction.
In an unexpected development, the flagship store in Antrim, initially marked for closure, will now remain operational. An agreement with the store’s landlord has enabled this outcome, showcasing the company’s commitment to preserving key locations where viable.
The restructuring plan is part of a broader strategy to enable Dobbies to return to profitability. By consolidating operations and eliminating underperforming sites, the company plans to unlock future investment opportunities and strengthen its business foundation. This initiative is expected to affect 465 of Dobbies’ 3,600 employees across the United Kingdom.
A spokesperson from Dobbies expressed gratitude towards landlords, colleagues, and customers who supported the restructuring plan process. By focusing on a future-oriented approach, Dobbies aims to build a robust platform for sustainable growth, reflecting the company’s adaptation to evolving market conditions.
Dobbies’ restructuring plan aims to lay the groundwork for sustainable growth amidst challenging market conditions.
