ISG completes restaurant fit out for Dobbies

ISG has completed a further two in-store restaurant refurbishment projects for Dobbies, a leading garden centre retailer, as the firm begins to reopen its 67 restaurants during July, following updated government guidance.

The Huntingdon and Gloucester refurbishments follow the 150-year old retailer’s new template restaurant model, which was developed by ISG’s in-house design team and first unveiled in Cirencester last year. The success of this first trial facility in driving up customer footfall, experience and satisfaction levels, has led Dobbies to roll out the concept to additional stores across the UK.

The two new restaurants use a high standard of materials and finishes, with bespoke joinery elements and contemporary design cues. Maximising the spacious floorplates within Dobbies stores, the restaurants feature fitted counters and wall units, alongside wood panelling, with a range of tasteful decorative finishes. Feature pendant lighting and comfortable seating further enhances the high-quality ambience of these spaces.

Barry Perkins, director at ISG’s Retail business, commented: “The investment Dobbies is making in its new restaurants highlights the company’s absolute focus on placing customer experience at the heart of its retail offer. Our collaboration is bringing new standards of quality design, innovation and delivery excellence to the garden centre sector, helping drive footfall and adding to the destination shopping formula that has served Dobbies so well.”

Revitalised restaurant facilities at Dobbies’ Gloucester store (images © Simon Pizzey for Dobbies Garden Centres)

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “Following the successful re-opening of our garden centres in May, we are well-placed to reopen our restaurants across the UK. We’re thrilled to be able to finally welcome customers to our new restaurant and coffee shop at our Huntingdon and Gloucester stores.”