Dobbies is reportedly looking to boost its online sales by offering UK-wide delivery supported by Ocado's technology, software and logistics as well as using the grocer's general merchandise warehouse.

The garden centre chain has signed a five year agreement with Ocado Groups' general merchandise subsidiary Speciality Stores.

According to Dobbies, it will enable the garden retailer to launch a new online store early next year.

The agreement with Ocado aims to “enable Dobbies to offer an outstanding online experience, delivering direct to existing as well as new customers across the UK.”

Chief executive Nicholas Marshall said: “Online, excluding food, is now approaching 40% of UK retail sales and rapidly growing. Yet, online garden retailing is just a few percent. The garden centre industry is at least ten years behind the rest of the retail world. The gardening market in the UK is worth £4 billion. The potential is therefore enormous. For us to partner with Ocado, the best online retailer in the UK, is a brilliant opportunity for Dobbies, and its customers.”

Dobbies chairman Andrew Bracey: “In our first year of ownership of Dobbies, we are delighted to announce our partnership with Ocado and its general merchandise subsidiary, Speciality Stores to take Dobbies online across the UK.  Ocado has an outstanding reputation for service and quality. I am confident that together we can grow a very successful online business for Dobbies across the whole of the UK.”

Ocado general merchandise managing director James Matthews added: “We are pleased to announce this agreement which will enable Dobbies to launch a new online service for their customers, powered by our technological and logistical know-how. The expertise we have gained through operating our current Speciality Stores businesses and our Fabled joint venture with Marie Claire has allowed us to provide a compelling service proposition to Dobbies and we are excited to be working with them to help grow their online presence.”