Marston’s has stated that its profit before tax is set to be ahead of market expectations in the year to 27 September.

The pub chain had previously forecast its underlying profit before tax to reach £67.2m in this period, with a range of £64.6m to £69.2m.

This increase marks the second consecutive year of profit growth for the company, following a 65% uplift in the previous financial year. In this period, like-for-like sales increased by 1.6%, with growth continuing to outpace the total market.

Marston’s, which owns an estate of over 1,300 pubs, added that its step-change in profitability has been underpinned by sustained margin expansion through its pub operating model, including revenue management, labour efficiency and procurement initiatives.

Looking ahead, Marston’s said that an accelerated capex programme is in place for the 2026 financial year to build on its momentum, with a "significant step up in format refurbishments" over the next year.

Following the trading update, shares in Marston’s jumped by almost 7%.

Chief executive officer at Marston’s, Justin Platt, said that the pub chain has delivered another year of growth and its improved recurring free cash flow has provided the firm with "continued opportunity" to invest in its estate, reduce debt and unlock long-term value for its shareholders.

He concluded: "Our market-leading pub operating model has been central to delivering strong margin uplifts, while guest experience scores have reached record levels - a testament to the passion and dedication of our teams. Our differentiated pub-formats are already delivering impressive results with a defined plan to accelerate this further in FY2026.

"With clear strategic priorities and disciplined execution, we enter the new year with strong momentum. Our results demonstrate we are delivering as a high-margin hospitality business, and with our formats growth engine showing great promise, we are poised to drive further financial and strategic progress."

Marston’s is scheduled to announce its 2025 financial year results on 25 November.

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