Midland pub group Mitchells and Butlers has revealed minimal like-for-like sales growth after being hit by the persistent wet weather and the "negative impact" of the European Football Championships.
Like-for-like sales growth at the Birmingham-based firm was 0.4% in the 14 weeks to July 14th and 1.9% for the 42 weeks of the year to date, although the firm was keen to emphasise that during this time there have been days of strong trading, including the five days over the Diamond Jubilee weekend which saw strong 4.0% like-for-like sales growth.
Like-for-like growth in the most recent nine weeks has seen growth 1.6%, according to a trading statement.
Total sales for the retained estate were up 5.1% in the first 42 weeks, while total company sales, including the impact from major disposals last year, were up 2.6%.
Executive chairman Bob Ivell said: "Despite the continuing poor weather and challenging economic conditions, we are continuing to deliver a resilient operating performance. Our business transformation programme is progressing well and we are increasing the focus on guest service in all parts of the business. We remain on track to deliver full year results in line with market expectations.
"The trials of our new 'ways of working' are progressing well and the roll-out of free wi-fi across the whole of our estate is now more than 50% complete."
