RNS Number:1403U
Dobbies Garden Centres PLC
13 January 2004



                                                                 13 January 2004

                           DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES PLC

                                 TRADING UPDATE


Dobbies Garden Centres plc ("Dobbies") today reports on trading over the
Christmas period.

Total sales for the 9 weeks to 28 December increased by 17.1%, and on a like-for
-like basis was 12.3%. 

James Barnes, Chief Executive, said: "Although Christmas is a less important
trading period for us than it is for High Street retailers, it is an area where
we have experienced growth over the past few years. This year we have increased
our marketing activity, both in terms of TV advertising and local events. In
addition, November sales of core gardening products were strong due to the mild
weather experienced in the Autumn."

The Company's Preliminary Results for the year ended 31 October 2003 will be
announced on 10 February 2004.

                                    - ENDS -



For further information, please contact:

James Barnes/Sharon Brown
Dobbies Garden Centres plc                     Tel: 0131 663 6778

Jonathon Brill/Caroline Sturdy/Zoe Sanders
Bell Pottinger Financial Ltd                   Tel: 020 7861 3232






                      This information is provided by RNS
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