JD Wetherspoon reported revenues of £2.13 billion for the year to 27 July, up 4.5% on the previous period. Like-for-like sales rose 5.1%, with growth driven by bar and food sales; hotel room revenue fell nearly 12% after the group exited online UK booking agents. The pub operator ended the year with 794 pubs and plans to open 15 managed and 15 franchised sites in the year ahead.

Chairman Tim Martin said higher national insurance contributions and wage costs add about £60 million to annual costs, alongside energy costs and a new packaging tax. He said cost increases are likely to feed into UK inflation and the company will aim to keep price rises to a minimum, with government energy costs potentially affecting the outcome for the year.

Analyst Robyn Duffy of RSM UK noted that Wetherspoon continues to outperform the wider UK pubs market. She highlighted robust drinks sales and a broadened food offer, with all-day breakfasts and affordable staples proving popular. Hotel stays dipped, but overall performance remained solid, and pricing is seen as a key factor in attracting cost-conscious customers.