PUBS operator Mitchells & Butlers toasted strong sales after it capitalised on a lull in the cold snap over Christmas and New Year.

Jan 9 2010 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

The group, which trades as All Bar One, O’Neills, Harvester and Ember Inns, said like-for-like sales rose by 3.4% in the six weeks to January 2 – but were up by 4.9% in the 10-day holiday period when the weather was less severe.

Mitchells described the performance as strong, but said it remained cautious on the outlook for consumer spending, particularly in the second half of the year.

It reported improved demand at its high street pubs and bars – where sales rose by 2.9% in the six week period after a flat performance in the previous eight weeks.

Drink sales increased by 2.1% while food sales remained “good”.