As sales of outdoor products are on the increase, Dobbies has noticed a trend for customers giving more thought to their outdoor space as they strive to achieve the wow factor.
Sales of outdoor products such as barbecues and furniture are on the increase for Dobbies, as the garden centre chain reported the week commencing May 12 as its best ever for barbecue sales.

During this week sales of barbecues shot up by 86%, compared to the same week last year, as Brits got ready to enjoy the May Bank holiday weekend.

Dobbies also saw a sharp rise in sales of outdoor furniture, up 58% in the same week.

As unreliable as the British weather is, it seems customers shopping at Dobbies are buying products to suit all eventualities.

Sales of outdoor heaters were up 49% on last year and solar lighting rose by a massive 78%.

Commercial director at Dobbies, Katherine Poulter, said: "Our customers know that in the UK you can't rely on the weather, but rather than cancel outdoor activities or plans, they're preparing for all weather eventualities.

"We are noticing a distinct trend for people putting as much effort into creating their outdoor living space as they do a living room or a bedroom. There's so much choice now when it comes to garden furniture and accessories that people are inspired to give it the wow factor."