Next is to open stores with garden centres attached as part of its plan for bigger stores to sell its full range of products, including garden furniture and outdoor products.

The high street retailer has its sights set on a former Homebase DIY store in Shoreham to pioneer the strategy, according to The Independent on Sunday. The 50,000 sq ft store will house clothing and homeware as well as garden furniture in the attached garden centre.

Next is also said to be considering opening coffee shops in its larger stores.