Greene King boosted by diners

Brewer Greene King today announced strong sales growth for the 24 weeks to 14 October 2012, largely thanks to strong sales at the pubs it controls.

Total revenue was £566.2m, up from £527.5m for the same period last year, leaving operating profits of £122.7m.

“Our team has delivered another strong trading performance driven by 17 per cent profit growth in our retail division,” said Rooney Anand, Greene King’s chief executive.

The firm is in the process of expanding its retail operation, with an increased focus on food. Many of Greene King’s customers are casual users of the chain, with weekly offers now accounting for 27 per cent of all meals sold at the firm’s Hungry Horse chain.