Dobbies chief executive, James Barnes, has spoken for the first time since the company’s takeover by retail giant, Tesco.
He told a meeting of GIMA, the assiciation which represents garden industry suppliers, that the takeover would not affect the Edinburgh-based company's ambitious plans for growth.

He said: "Three years ago we put together an expansion programme to have 100 stores in the UK in the next 10 years. Our vision then – as it is now – is to place Dobbies as the leading niche garden and home retailer in the UK.

"That has not changed. It is business as usual for us.

"Dobbies will retain is own separate brand and identity and have its own management structure. It will continue to be based at its present headquarters in Midlothian. "

Mr Barnes also rejected speculation that small Dobbies stores would spring up in Tesco outlets across the country or that the presence of Wyevale Garden Centres rival, Sir Tom Hunter, on the Dobbies board would undermine expansion plans.

For more of James Barnes’ thoughts on the takeover of Dobbies by Tesco, see the October 26 issue of DIY Week.