Mitchells and Butlers sales rise 3.9% in Q1

Mitchells and Butlers (M&B) has seen a like-for-like sales growth of 3.9% over the 15 weeks ended 11 January 2025.

Over the core three-week Christmas period, sales increased 10.4%, a figure built on “numerous record sales performances through the estate and the brand portfolio”.

The group said that sales remained “well ahead” of the market, despite the impact of very cold and stormy weather in the last couple of weeks. 

The operator of managed restaurants and pubs is now focusing on investment in the estate, and in the year to date it has already completed 40 conversions and remodels. 

Looking ahead, the group remains confident in its ability to tackle the £100m of year-on-year cost headwinds it expects to face. 

Phil Urban, chief executive, said: “We are delighted to have delivered another strong festive trading period, with some excellent performances across our brand portfolio. Growth was particularly strong on festive key dates supported by volume growth, and with record sales on Christmas Day. 

“Our focus remains on the effective execution of our Ignite programme of initiatives and our successful capital investment programme, driving cost efficiencies and increased sales. We continue to leverage the strength of our diverse portfolio of established brands and enviable estate locations and believe we are well positioned to further grow profitability and market share in the year ahead.”