Young’s has reported revenue for the first half of 2025 increased 5.4 percent to £263.6m year-on-year, with profit up 20.9 percent to £30.6m, as like-for-like drink sales rose by 6.5 percent, food sales rose by 3.8 percent and room sales rose by 4 percent.

The pub operator enjoyed strong trading during the summer and is looking ahead to a 25 percent uptick in Christmas bookings, however concerns remain over food inflation, with costs up 7.5 percent during the six months to 29 September.

“I am delighted to announce another strong set of results, driven by our well-invested, premium managed house estate that continues to outperform the wider market,” said CEO Simond Dodd. 

“Operating margins remained under pressure during the period, due to the increased cost headwinds of National Living Wage, National Insurance and, more recently, food inflation.”

Expanding on the subject, Dodd told This is Money that the company is seeking to avoid passing costs onto customers, saying “we are being cautious on price.”

“We need certainty and we need a growth plan. If I had any ask, it would be meaningful business rate reform, which helps the whole of hospitality, and a serious look at VAT reduction. And stick to that duty freeze, because that can help the sector dramatically.”