Dobbies appoints James Barnes as an advisor
HTA Chairman and chief executive of Dobbies till 2013, James Barnes, has been appointed as an advisor to Dobbies Garden Centres.
James Barnes is a member of Dobbies’ founding family. He took control of the business from his father and, as chief executive, listed the business on AIM.
The business grew to 24 garden centres, before it became the object in a protracted takeover battle between Tesco and Sir Tom Hunter. The supermarket won the battle in 2008 and James Barnes remained with the business till 2013.
He has been Chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) since 2018.
The Dobbies’ team is looking forward drawing on his industry knowledge and wider business expertise.
James Barnes said: “I have a long history with Dobbies, it’s a really fantastic business, and I’m excited to be in a position where I can work with David and his senior team on their robust plans for growth.”
David Robinson, CEO of Dobbies, said: “I’ve enjoyed my meetings with James since joining Dobbies and it’s brilliant to formalise this relationship. James is a hugely respected figure in the industry who is ideally placed to work with us as we accelerate our plans for growth.
“He knows Dobbies incredibly well, and as we start our 160th year of helping British gardeners to grow, it’s great to share the news of his appointment.”