Wyevale to boost Xmas spirit with in-store grottos

Wyevale Garden Centres is to extend its Christmas offer and introduce specially-created festive areas to boost second- half footfall.

The retailer tested an increased Christmas range and in-store design, including a Santa's Grotto, in six outlets last year. The look and range will go into most of Wyevale's 123 stores this year.

Separately, Wyevale plans to redevelop about a quarter of its estate if it can secure planning permission.

Sales at Wyevale increased by 8.6 per cent to£110.3 million for the six months to June 29, and profit before tax was up 6.1 per cent to£17.5 million.