Marston’s pub company boosted by “good weather rather than World Cup”

4th August 2010, 9:33am

Marston’s Pub Company says it remains on track to meet financial expectations after sales were boosted by the good weather rather than the World Cup.

In its Marston's Inns and Taverns division, the company said the success of food offers and new build strategy was continuing to drive growth.

Like-for-like sales for the 43 weeks to 31 July were 1.7% ahead of last year, with like-for-like food sales growth of 2.5% and like-for-like wet sales growth of 1.3%.

And things seem to be improving in the Marston's Pub Company division. The statement read: "Our tenanted and leased pubs division, underlying profit trends have continued to improve with like-for-like profits estimated to be down 4.0% in the 43 weeks to 31 July. This compares favourably to the 4.5% decline reported in the Interim Results in May."

New openings appear to be on track too with a projected 20 new pub-restaurants launching in 2011.

Overall the business described its performance as "encouraging".

"Following the emergency Budget in June we remain cautious about the consequential impact on consumer confidence. However, we are encouraged by our recent trading performance. Our focus on value for money, high quality pubs and local beers combined with clearly defined strategies for each of our trading divisions place us in a strong position to meet the forthcoming challenges," concluded the statement.

Click here to submit a comment!

Have your say!

To comment on this article, simply enter your name and email and send us your views. Please note that your comment will appear publicly below this article once it has been processed. For enquiries please email info@eatoutmagazine.co.uk.