North east-based pub group, the Inn Collection, has reported a rise in like-for-like sales of 7.5% in the five weeks to January 6.
The performance capped a year in which the group delivered like-for-like sales growth of 13%.
Overall, all trading formats performed well across the group’s estate of pubs with rooms, with accommodation leading the way with a 26% increase in sales.
Operations director Sean Donkin said: “We are delighted to have exceeded our seasonal sales forecasts with the strongest like-for-like sales achieved yet in the group’s 10-year history.
“We enjoyed an extended period of festivities as a result of Christmas falling on a Monday, which enabled us to optimise the number of Christmas party events across our units, which has contributed towards a record rise in accommodation sales.”
He added: “Bar sales grew strongly, driven by demand for premium drinks products and our Christmas menus and entertainment were well received and helped secure record covers across the period.”
The Inn Collection Group’s estate has a current total of 202 bedrooms across its Northumberland, County Durham and Teesside.
