Coronavirus: Dobbies to reopen UK garden centres

Following the latest government guidance, Dobbies has confirmed it will open its UK stores on May 13.

The specialist retailer will reopen its store estate with measures in place to ensure the safety of its shoppers and staff, including a queuing system outside stores, a cap on the number of shoppers allow in-store at a time, protective screens at tills and PPE for staff, as well as hand sanitising and trolley cleaning stations at the entrance of every store.

The retailer’s restaurants and soft play areas will be closed but Dobbies will offer a takeaway menu of hot drinks and a selection of food items from May 15.

Chief executive Graeme Jenkins said: “We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the government, British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly.

“Our team is well prepared, social distancing measures are in place and we look forward to welcoming customers back into our stores across England.

“I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times.”