JD Wetherspoon chair Tim Martin has reported he is “cautious” regarding the company’s full year outlook in anticipation of the Budget, despite like-for-like sales for the 14 weeks to 2 November increasing 3.7 percent.

Machines revenue during the period rose 8.9 percent, while bar and food sales increased 5.7 and 0.9 percent respectively, however room sales dropped 6.3 percent and outgoings such as wages continued to rise.

“The company is pleased with the continued sales momentum but is mindful of the Chancellor’s Budget statement later this month and, as a result, is slightly more cautious in its outlook for the remainder of the year,” said Martin.

Commenting on the impact of last year’s Budget, Martin said increased labour costs are “dramatically widening the pricing differential between pubs and supermarkets, to the anger and consternation of customers.”

The pub company employed approximately 42,100 venue and head office staff during 2025, with increased NICs and wages reportedly adding £60m to annual costs.

According to Martin, a 10 percent increase in wages will add 15p per draught pint served in a pub, compared to just 1.5p for the equivalent bottled or canned beer sold in supermarkets.

“It is important to emphasise the above points since it’s not clear that they are fully appreciated by legislators, economists or the public.”