Fuller's benefits from increased footfall and return to office working

Pub operator Fuller, Smith & Turner said on Thursday that trading has steadily increased across the board since reopening its estate in July.

Fullers stated like-for-like sales for the seven weeks ended 18 September 2021 stood at 86% of 2019 levels, with the group stating it was looking forward to further benefits stemming from increased footfall and a continued return to office working.

Chief executive Simon Emeny said: "While we are not immune to some of the well-documented challenges facing the wider hospitality industry such as recruitment, the pandemic has further highlighted the attraction and resilience of our well-balanced, premium estate.

"Our rural pubs and hotels have benefited from the increase in domestic tourism during the summer months and we are now beginning to see a return of customers to our Central London pubs, which is a great sign as we head into a busy trading period."

Emeny added that it had been "a tough 18 months for everyone in hospitality" but noted he was "confident" in the group's strategy and highlighted that its long-term vision had not changed.

"We have an excellent, well-invested estate, a strong balance sheet, and we look forward to the coming months with confidence and optimism," he concluded.

As of 0830 BST, Fullers shares were down 1.10% at 722.0p.