Pub group Mitchell’s and Butlers has reported an “exceptionally strong” festive trading period, with like-for-like sales up 4.5 percent during the first quarter and total sales up 3.5 percent for the year to date.

The firm’s five “key christmas dates” saw like-for-like sales jump 10.5 percent, while food and drink sales for the 15 weeks to 10 January were up 5.1 percent and 3.8 percent respectively.

“We are pleased to report another exceptionally strong festive trading period, marked by numerous record-breaking performances across our brand portfolio and continued market outperformance in every segment,” said CEO Phil Urban.

“Sales growth on key festive dates was particularly strong, with Christmas Day setting a new all-time record for the highest sales day, surpassing last year’s benchmark.”

Despite the positive trading, the firm added it expects trade headwinds to exceed £130m this year, which put a damper on share price performance following the announcement. 

“Our focus remains on tackling the significant cost headwinds faced by the industry this financial year,” said Urban.

“We remain well positioned to further grow market share in the year ahead by leveraging the strength of our diverse portfolio of established brands and enviable estate locations.”