Dobbies is set to close 17 UK stores in major blow for shoppers. Dobbies has announced that it would shut 17 of its "unprofitable stores" as part of a new restructuring plan as it aims to “address historically uneconomical rent costs and ensure a return to sustainable profitability”. Dobbies wants to close 11 mainline sites and six "little Dobbies" stores if the restructuring plan is approved.
In its announcement, Dobbies said : "The restructuring programme and other strategic initiatives, are expected to return Dobbies to sustainable profitability through site rationalisations, rent reductions and other tangible cost savings – securing its long-term future and allowing access to future investment. "Last July, the retailer brought on the former Pets at Home boss David Robinson as the new chief executive. He replaced former boss Graeme Jenkins who left after seven years to ”pursue other opportunities”.
Dobbies stores set to close include Altrincham, Antrim, Gloucester and Gosforth. READ MORE UK faces 66 hours of snow with three places 'worst hit' by flurries Other branches include Harlestone Heath, Huntingdon, Inverness and King’s Lynn. Pennine, Reading and Stratford-upon-Avon completes the list.
And when it comes to Little Dobbies the sites shutting include Cheltenham, Chiswick and Clifton. Richmond, Stockbridge and Westbourne Grove are also shuttering, the chain has confirmed on Tuesday, October 1. While the process is ongoing, all shops will continue to operate .