Marston’s sales rise 2.9% in H1

Marston’s has seen its like-for-like (LFL) sales up 2.9% in the 31 weeks to 3 May, with strong growth of 10.5% in the five weeks since the period ended.

In H1 2025, LFL sales grew by 1.3% reflecting timing of Easter and Mothers Day which fell in H1 in 2024 and in H2 2025.

Total revenue was stable at £427.4m, despite £50m of disposals in FY2024, while underlying pub operating profit increased by 20.1% to £63.3m. Profit before tax reached £19m, driven by “robust” revenue performance and operational discipline.

The company said that during the period pub format rollout has progressed “well”, with 18 new openings out of 30 having already been delivered on time and on budget.

Following the results, the group has said that FY2025 performance is expected to be in line with current market expectations. 

Justin Platt, CEO of Marston’s PLC, said: “The first half has been a period of significant momentum for Marston’s, with the execution of a market leading pub operating model, investment in our differentiated pub formats and progress in our digital transformation driving strong margin and profit growth.

“Through our impactful calendar of demand-driving events and the dedication of our passionate, local teams, we continue to deliver great guest experiences every day, powering our industry-leading guest reputation scores. With strong recent trading across our nationwide estate of great local pubs, we are excited for the summer months ahead.”

He added: “We remain confident in achieving our financial goals for the full year and focused on executing our strategy as a pure play hospitality company to deliver sustainable growth and increasing returns for our shareholders.”