Overview

• In the 12 weeks to July 20, JD Wetherspoon reported a 5.1% rise in like-for-like sales and overall volumes that exceed pre-pandemic levels.
• The chain highlighted standout performances in prosecco, Villa Maria wine, spirits including whisky, draught beer led by Guinness, breakfasts and chicken volumes.
• The company anticipates full-year profits in line with market expectations despite rising labour costs, VAT and business rates, with net debt of £720 million and £220 million of headroom.
• It will hold food and drink prices through summer and autumn and press the government for VAT and business-rates parity with supermarkets.
• The group plans to open about 15 new managed pubs and a similar number of franchised sites over the next year alongside investments in staff rooms, branded glass racks and beer gardens.