STIHL PARTNER WITH DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES Five store pilot across Scotland
STIHL Group has made the decision to broaden its retail network to include non-tradtional servicing dealers as it sees the demand for Lithium-Ion products grow exponentially.
As part of a five store pilot - with a view to future developments - consumers will now be able to purchase STIHL cordless and electric products and accessories from designated Dobbies Garden Centres across Scotland.
The new pilot programme will be rolled out across Dobbies Garden Centres in Edinburgh (Melville), Aberdeen, Dundee, Ayr and Glasgow (Braehead), all of which will feature STIHL’s new Point of Sale system - specifically designed for garden centres. Dobbies’ Melville store will be the first to unveil the STIHL range as of today (15th September 2017).
In a press release statement Robin Lennie, Managing Director at STIHL GB, said: “We're delighted to announce this new pilot programme in five of Dobbies' stores. Whilst the demand for STIHL cordless products is at an all time high, we are committed to working with retail partners who not only offer a high quality shopping environment, but also well-trained staff to provide advice and support to our customers. We are therefore very pleased to be working with Dobbies who share STIHL's values.”
Andrew West, Purchasing Director at Dobbies Garden Centres, commented: “We are thrilled to launch such an exciting new partnership with STIHL. Dobbies' discerning customers are keen to see brands like STIHL in our stores and we're excited with this development."
In a letter to tradtional servicing dealers explaining the move into Dobbies, Robin Lennie wrote, "The importance of STIHL’s existing Approved Dealer network was and remains unaffected by this announcement since STIHL petrol-powered machines and accessories as well as servicing, continue to be exclusively available through STIHL Approved Dealers."
He went on to say, "I appreciate the concerns that some Approved Dealers may have but I want to reassure you that we will continue to hand pick all STIHL retailers and will only work with those prepared to commit to our quality requirements with regards to merchandising and training."