![\"World](\"https:\/\/dailybusinessgroup.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/World-Cup-draw.png\")
Pubs group Marston\u2019s delivered a profits rise and improved margins ahead of a likely summer boost from the World Cup.<\/p>\n
Figures for the 26 weeks ended 28 March 2026, showed stable underlying EBITDA of \u00a385.9 million, with an improved underlying EBITDA margin of 20.3%.<\/p>\n
Revenue was \u00a3422.7 million, a slight decrease of 1.1% year-on-year, impacted by temporary pub closures for format refurbishments. Profit before tax increased by 7.9% to \u00a320.5m. <\/p>\n
The company completed 60 pub format refurbishments, exceeding its target, with these new formats delivering an average return on invested capital of 35% and like-for-like growth of approximately 20%.<\/p>\n
Capital expenditure rose to \u00a339m, and net debt reduced by 2.7% to \u00a3857.7m, with leverage improving to 4.7x. <\/p>\n
Marston\u2019s said it remains on track to meet full-year expectations, anticipating strong summer trading driven by new pub formats and upcoming events.<\/p>\n
Justin Platt, CEO, said: \u201cWe have made excellent strategic progress in the first half, delivering a strong profit performance underpinned by further margin expansion.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cOur disciplined operating model continues to drive efficiencies across the business.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are very well positioned for the World Cup summer ahead and expect our pubs, especially our new Grandstand formats, to be in high demand. <\/p>\n
\u201cAgainst this backdrop, we are encouraged by the outlook for H2 and remain on track to deliver full?year market expectations.\u201d<\/p>\n
\t <\/div>\n