Marston’s, the brewer and pub operator, has reported “strong” trading performance in its most recent trading period, with like-for-like sales in its Destination and Premium pubs up 6% in the 10 weeks to 20 July.
Over the 42 weeks to 20 July, like-for-likes in the division were up 2.1%, including like-for-like food sales growth of 3.7% and like-for-like wet sales up 0.5% on last year. Marston’s has opened 16 new pub-restaurants in the year to date.
In its Taverns community pubs, performance in the second-half year to date is “in line with last year” with growth in its franchise pubs against strong comparatives that included the positive impact of the Euro 2012 football tournament as well as disposals, “which are ahead of schedule”.
In its Leased pubs, performance for the second half year to date is “in line with last year”.
“In brewing, we have made excellent progress against a declining market, with year to date own-brewed beer volumes up around 6%.
“We are ahead of target in disposing of our non-core pubs, with proceeds to date of £35 million and a revised forecast of around £50 million by the year-end.”
Ralph Findlay, chief executive, said: “Our focus on value for money, quality and great service is generating strong growth in our Destination pubs, with increased customer visits reflecting the appeal of our offers.
“The key elements of our strategy - the development of new-build pub restaurants; the increased licensee support and improved consumer offers facilitated by franchise agreements; and a brewing business focused on premium beers and local ales, are all on track.”
