The closure of the Inverness Dobbies store will result in job losses and aims for profitability.
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The Dobbies garden centre in Inverness is set to close its doors permanently on Saturday, December 23, 2023. This announcement comes as part of a broader restructuring plan aimed at returning the company to profitability after facing significant financial challenges, including high rent costs.
The closure will result in the loss of 33 jobs, impacting both full-time and part-time employees at the store.
Impact of the closure on local employment
The decision to close the Inverness location is part of Dobbies’ strategy to streamline operations and focus on sustainable profitability across its UK stores.
With six full-time and 27 part-time positions at stake, the closure raises concerns about the local job market and the economic implications for the community. Dobbies has expressed gratitude to its employees, customers, and suppliers for their support during this challenging time, emphasizing the need for a constructive approach in working with landlords to facilitate the restructuring process.
Reasons behind the closure
Dobbies has cited “uneconomical rent costs” as a primary factor in its decision to close the Inverness store. This move is part of a larger trend in the retail sector, where many businesses are reassessing their physical footprints in response to changing consumer behaviors and economic pressures. The company had previously indicated that the Inverness store would likely close before the end of 2024, but the accelerated timeline reflects the urgency of addressing financial sustainability.
Future plans for Dobbies
Despite the closure of the Inverness store, Dobbies remains optimistic about its future. A spokesperson for the company stated that the approval of the Restructuring Plan (RP) allows them to focus on building a strong foundation for profitability moving forward. The company aims to enhance its operations across the UK, ensuring that remaining stores can thrive in a competitive market. As Dobbies navigates these changes, the impact on customers and the community will be closely monitored, with hopes for a positive outcome in the long run.
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