World Cup trading 'as expected'

Pubs performed "as expected" during the World Cup as England's early exit from the tournament was offset by the good weather, according to trade figures.

Despite Capello's men being dumped out in the second round by a rampant Germany, many licensees saw trading remain strong as soaring temperatures attracted customers.

"It wasn't a bonanza for many, but sports operators that were prepared, still did well," said Kate Nicholls, the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers head of communications.

"The good weather seemed to balance out England's early exit, as people still went to the pub to enjoy the sun."

The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) estimated turnover across the sector during the World Cup was around £80-90m.

"Trading was pretty much as expected as most people weren't banking on England going that far," said Mark Hastings, the BBPA's director of communications.

Meanwhile, Punch Taverns said it had seen a "strong uplift" in trading during the tournament.

A spokeswoman said: "We believe this is largely because both our leased and managed pubs were well prepared to deliver a fantastic guest experience during the games.

"This, coupled with the good weather has given our pubs a much needed boost, which we plan to build on in the summer."

London-based brewer and operator Fuller's said its pubs focussed on offering customers a great atmosphere, particularly during England games.

"While it is difficult to separate the impact of the World Cup from that of the warm weather we have experienced recently, those efforts appeared to be appreciated by the pubs' customers," a spokesman said.

"It's just a shame the England team weren't as well prepared for the tournament as our pubs were."

Meanwhile, Spanish tapas restaurant and bar group La Tasca picked up the food tab for thousands of its customers, after Andres Iniesta gave the Spanish team a late 1-0 victory.