Marston's reports strong Christmas trading

Pub operator Marston’s reported record Christmas sales on Tuesday, as like-for-like sales grew 3% over the quarter.

In a trading update for the 16-week period to 23 January, Marston’s said sales in the key two week Christmas trading period to 2 January were up 4.9% despite tough comparatives.

Meanwhile, operating margins were ahead of last year and the company said it was on track to open at least 20 new pub-restaurants and five lodges in the current financial year, with seven pub and three lodge openings expected in the first half.

In the taverns divisions, managed and franchised pub LFL sales were 2.7% ahead of the previous year, with 5% growth over the Christmas fortnight.

In the brewing division, own-brewed beer volumes were up 21% in the year to date, underpinned by a strong performance in off-licenses.

Chief executive Ralph Findlay said: "Once again we traded well over the Christmas period with record sales over the key Christmas fortnight for the fourth year in succession, maintaining our record of market out-performance, including pub retail sales of over £3m on Christmas Day for the first time.

“This performance demonstrates the appeal of our pubs and the value for money we offer, underpinned by excellent service. In Brewing, our principal brands and new beers contributed to an excellent first quarter."