British pubs group Marston's sales rise back to 2019 level as it hedges energy costs

Marston's rivals Mitchells & Butlers warned of tighter margins in its new financial year as costs rise, while Wetherspoon's operating costs nearly doubled

Sales of drinks in the UK outperformed food because of hot weather during the summer, Marston's said.

British pub operator Marston's has said its annual retail sales rose above pre-pandemic levels, as people splurged on drinks more than food despite the worsening cost-of-living crisis.

Pubs, restaurants and hotels in Britain, still recovering from pandemic restrictions, are now grappling with rising costs and lower consumer spending in the face of rising inflation.