South West pub operator and craft brewer Butcombe Brewing Co has celebrated an exceptional sales performance in its first full year operating under its new brand identity. The Wrington-based group, previously known as Liberation, attributes its success to strategic investments in its estate, particularly in accommodation offerings, which have enabled it to outperform the broader market over the twelve months ending in January.
Impressive Financial Results Across Divisions
The business reported robust like-for-like growth of eight percent across its managed pub division. This growth was driven by a 10.1 percent increase in drink sales, a 6.5 percent rise in food sales, and a 5.3 percent boost in accommodation revenue. Additionally, Butcombe Pubs & Inns in the UK achieved a 9.7 percent like-for-like growth, while the Channel Islands Liberation Pubs & Bars division performed at 3.5 percent like-for-like.
Record-Breaking Festive Trading Period
Butcombe experienced its best-ever Christmas trading period, with the managed pub estate achieving like-for-like sales growth of 14.4 percent over the Christmas and New Year fortnight. This period included the group's highest-ever weekly sales and a record-breaking day on Christmas Day. The UK tenanted business also saw a remarkable sales increase of 25.2 percent during the same festive season.
Expansion of Boutique Inns and Non-Alcoholic Beverage Success
Strong demand for Butcombe's premium room offering, Butcombe Boutique Inns, has prompted the addition of the Welldiggers Arms in Petworth to its portfolio. This expansion brings the total number of boutique venues to twelve, with plans to further increase this number in the upcoming financial year. The rapid growth of no and low alcohol brands, including the award-winning Goram IPA Zero, contributed significantly to the drinks division, with this category surging by 63.9 percent for the year.
Leadership Perspective on Future Growth
Jonathan Lawson, Chief Executive of Butcombe Group, expressed his delight at the strong results, stating, "I am delighted to report such strong results and once again I must start with a massive thank you to our amazing teams in the UK and Channel Islands who are at the heart of everything we do and are passionate about delivering the highest standards of service to our customers."
He added, "To culminate with a record-breaking Christmas with sector leading LFL’s against tough comparatives last year is incredibly satisfying and demonstrates the strength of our business and the growing loyalty of our customers. As we look ahead, we remain confident that we are well positioned to sustain growth thanks to our brilliant pubs in ideal locations and unmatched guest experience."
