Mitchells and Butlers has announced its like-for-like sales for the 28 weeks to 12 April increased by 4.3 percent, with the full year operating profit “expected to be at the top end of current consensus.”

Operating profit for the period rose 10.4 percent on the prior year to £181m, while operating margins increased from 11.7 percent to 12.4 percent, as revenue hit £1.45bn, up from £1.39bn in 2024.

“The strength of our first half performance is driven by continued focus on maximising the guest appeal of our diverse portfolio of brands to drive sales, supported by efficiency initiatives delivered through our Ignite programme of work,” said CEO Phil Urban. “We are delighted with the like-for-like sales performance which continues to outperform against the market.”

“As we enter the second half of the year, with increased employer national insurance contributions, we remain focused on the effective delivery of our Ignite programme of initiatives and our capital investment programme, driving further cost efficiencies and increased sales.”

Though Urban acknowledged “a likely increase in cost headwinds next year,” he added “we have confidence that relentless focus on delivery of our strategic priorities will generate further value from our well invested and strategically located estate portfolio and compelling customer offers.”