Argos and Dobbies top Which? gardening/DIY survey

Dobbies Garden Centres has been voted joint top of the list of the Gardening and DIY category in a recent Which? survey where UK shoppers rated the top 100 shops in the country.

Sharing the top spot was John Lewis and Argos, and independent department stores, all on 70 per cent in the 11,000 member poll.

The full Which? customer rating list:

Dobbies 70%
Argos 70%
Independent department stores, 70%
Wilkinson 68%
Independent garden centres and stores 66%
The Range 65%
B&Q 65%
Garden Centre Group 64%
Wickes 64%
Robert Dyas 63%
Ikea 62%
Homebase 61%
Morrisons 57%

Dobbies scored top marks for range. Quality and store environment won four out of five stars.
Service and after sales received three stars. Pricing scored two stars.

Chief executive James Barnes said:

"This recognition not only firmly positions Dobbies as a leader in garden centre retailing but also puts us at the forefront of the retail industry.

"We are delighted to be recognised by customers for our great range of products, competitive prices, high level of customer service and our in-store environment.

"The section of the report where Dobbies scored the highest was our range – gaining top marks. As a business we endeavour to make gardening fun, inspiring and affordable as well as providing a day out destination for all to enjoy."

Source : Matthew Appleby - Horticulture Week
www.hortweek.com/