Butcombe Group reports 8% managed sales growth

Butcombe Group has reported like-for-like sales growth of 8.0% across its managed pub division for the year ended 31 January 2026.

The performance includes a 10.1% increase in drink sales, 6.5% in food, and 5.3% in accommodation.

UK Butcombe Pubs & Inns also delivered 9.7% LFL growth, while Channels Islands Liberation Pubs and Bars’ LFL  was up by 3.5% LFL in a mature market

The results, released in the company’s first full year under the Butcombe name following its evolution from Liberation Group, were supported by a record festive period. 

Managed pub sales rose 14.4% over the Christmas and New Year fortnight, delivering the group’s highest ever weekly and daily sales figures on Christmas Day.

The group’s premium accommodation brand, Butcombe Boutique Inns, also saw 12.5% like-for-like growth. Overall occupancy rates rose by 180 basis points to 76.8%. Following this demand, the company converted the Welldiggers Arms in Petworth to its 12th Boutique Inn site, with further conversions planned for 2026.

Additionally, London managed sites recorded an 11.6% increase in like-for-like sales, led by performance at the Punch Bowl, the Brown Cow, and the Fulham Arms. The group also noted significant growth in specific categories, with morning sales up 25.9% and wedding revenue increasing by 55% year on year.

Butcombe Brewing Co reported a 30% increase in off-trade distribution, securing new listings in M&S, Tesco, and Co-op. The no and low-alcohol beer category grew 63.9% over the 12-month period, driven by the Goram IPA Zero brand.

Jonathan Lawson, chief executive of Butcombe Group, said: “I am delighted to report such strong results and once again I must start with a massive thank you to our teams in the UK and Channel Islands who are at the heart of everything we do. To culminate with a record-breaking Christmas with sector leading LFL’s against tough comparatives last year is incredibly satisfying and demonstrates the strength of our business and the growing loyalty of our customers.

“We are proud to see our Managed Pubs and Inns evolve to meet changing customer needs, while staying true to the character that defines British pubs, which has helped us capture new occasions such as mornings and weddings. As we look ahead, we remain confident that we are well positioned to sustain growth thanks to our pubs in locations and guest experience.”