Garden centre unveils encouraging pre-close statement
Dobbies Garden Centres unveiled a promising pre-close statement today, with like-for-like sales for the year to October 31 up 1.5 per cent. Pre-tax profits for the year are, according to the trading statement, 'presently expected to be in the range of market estimates'.

Evolution retail analyst Nick Bubb said: 'Good old Dobbies Garden Centres has issued a re-assuring pre-close statement today.'

The company has planning permission for its 49,000 sq ft (4,550 sq m) garden centre site at Cirencester and construction begun. The store is planned to open in April next year.

Dobbies has also has entered into a conditional agreement to acquire a site for a garden centre at Junction 3 of the M9 in Fife.

The group's preliminary results are due on February 7 next year.