Garden centre chain Dobbies to shut 17 stores as part of restructuring plan

Closures will affect 465 jobs and retailer will also try to reduce its rent bill at nine sites if creditors approve its strategy

Dobbies is planning to shut 17 of its 77 stores affecting 465 jobs as its new owners try to return the garden centre group to profitability.

The company, which employs 3,600 workers, said it was seeking the approval of creditors for a restructuring plan that would reduce its rent bill.