But restructuring knocks profits
Wyevale Garden Centres' portfolio review last year hit year-end figures heavily. Sales for the 53 weeks to January 2 increased year on year by 1.3 per cent to£192.5 million. Like-for-like sales for the year were up marginally by 0.3 per cent. However, profit before tax fell to£15.1 million from£20.5 million the year before, with the retailer taking a£4.5 million hit from the closure of operations.

The retailer's property overhaul will continue, with 184,000 sq ft (17,095 sq m) of covered retail space to be added by Easter. Wyevale chief executive Bob Hewitt said: 'The improvements made at our latest redeveloped centres in terms of layout, ambience and product range are already producing excellent year-on-year sales increases and I am confident that the ongoing programme of investment in our estate will result in increased earnings growth.'

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