Pub group takes glass-half-full approach

Marston’s is continuing to deliver sales growth, with June’s warm weather helping to boost its performance, although margins are still under pressure.

The Wolverhampton pub group is “confident of delivering further profitable progress for the full financial year”, it said in a statement to the stock market.

It recorded 2.4% growth in its Taverns in the last 12 weeks – slightly ahead of the 42-week performance of 1.9% – although its Destination and Premium outlets saw growth slow in the recent period.

Profits from its leased business are expected to be around 2% higher than a year while its brewing division is enjoying a 4% rise in volumes.

Ralph Findlay, chief executive of Marston’s, said: “We remain encouraged by our continued market outperformance and focused on delivering sustainable growth and maximising return on capital in an evolving market place.”

He said the group is “maintaining a good balance” and is delivering growth across its three divisions of pubs, accommodation and brewing.

Last month Marston’s completed the £55m acquisition of the Charles Wells Group. The Bedford-based brewer has a portfolio of more than 30 beers including Bombardier, Young’s and McEwan’s.

Findlay added: “The Charles Wells brewing and beer business is bedding in well, further underpinning our leadership in the UK ale market.”

We are on track to complete our new-build and lodge expansion plans.  We remain confident of delivering further profitable progress for the full financial year.”