Fuller's pub chain expects strong summer boost from World Cup evening kick-offs and staycation demand
Fuller's, a UK pub and hotel chain, is preparing for a bumper summer season driven by evening World Cup match times and increased domestic tourism as consumers opt for staycations. The company reported strong financial results with revenues up 5.7% to £398m and adjusted profit before tax up 28% to £34.6m. The later kick-off times (9pm-10pm BST for England matches) are expected to benefit pubs more than traditional afternoon slots, while affluent customers continue spending despite cost-of-living pressures.
Fuller's chief executive Simon Emeny has expressed optimism about the summer ahead, citing two major factors: the 2026 FIFA World Cup's evening kick-off times for UK viewers and a significant rise in domestic staycations. The company, which operates 337 pubs, hotels and inns primarily across London and the south-east, has upgraded garden areas to accommodate World Cup viewers. Emeny noted that evening kick-offs (9pm-10pm BST for England's group matches starting June 17) should benefit pubs more than traditional afternoon slots, which historically cannibalized summer trading. Fuller's financial performance supports this optimism, with revenues reaching £398m (up 5.7%) and adjusted profit before tax climbing 28% to £34.6m, lifting the share price by up to 10%. The company attributes continued strong spending to affluent customers earning over £75,000 who are protecting their leisure spending despite inflation. Additionally, Fuller's has revalued its property portfolio at £991m, nearly £400m above book value, suggesting potential future value creation beyond operational performance.
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Pub chain Fuller’s hopes for bumper summer from World Cup and staycations
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