Marston’s has said that like-for-like sales are up 22% for the 42-week period to 18 July 2026.

The company, which has an estate of more than 1,300 pubs, said strong trading during the World Cup with England matchdays delivering like-for-like-sales growth of 22%, and sales up c.170% year-on-year across Grandstand pubs.

New pub formats all continued to deliver excellent like-for-like sales growth. Grandstand is the standout performer, generating year-to-date like-for-like sales growth of c. 30% in the 36 conversions completed to date.

However, year-to-date like-for-like sales are 1.6% lower than last year, with softer off-peak market conditions offsetting strong growth in peak occasions.

Going forward, the group said the strength of the its market-leading pub operating model, evidenced by continued margin progression and disciplined cost control, underpins the Board’s confidence in delivering full-year market expectations.

Justin Platt, CEO of Marston’s PLC, commented: “Our pubs have delivered a strong start to the summer, with an excellent World Cup once again underlining the enduring role of the community pub as the place the nation comes together to cheer the moments that matter.

“Our new Grandstand pubs have been leading the way and continue to perform ahead of expectations, while our accelerated investment programme is driving further trading momentum and enhancing guest experiences across our estate.

“Supported by a clear strategy, disciplined cost control and continued investment in our new formats, we are well positioned for the summer trading period ahead. Given this, as well as our progress on leverage reduction, the Group is well-placed to recommence shareholder returns in FY2027.”