Everards eyes six acquisitions in 2014
Turnover also grew 1.7% to £29.8m for the Leicestershire-based brewer and pub operator, which operates 175 tenanted pubs, and pre-exceptional operating profit increased by 3.1% to £3.1m. Including exceptional items, pre-tax profit rose from £2.4m to £3.6m.
Like-for-like sales of Everards’ own draught beers increased by 2.4%, the company said, supported by a strong export performance.
Everards added six sites during the year and Gould told M&C Report he’d like to secure a similar number this year.
The drinks-led pub has 'vital role to play'
The company said: “Trading over the Christmas and New Year period was good, driven by first rate food offers from many of our licensees. However, the drinks-led pub still has a vital role to play.
“Those pubs which deliver a drinks-led experience with real personality (led by Project William) are attracting more customers who are looking for a different type of pub experience and occasion. So quality locally sourced food delivered in a casual dining environment and independent drinks-led pubs both have a role to play.
“For 2014 we remain cautious as some improvement in the economy has not fed through yet to customers real growth in personal income. The key is to keep focused on delivering a value for money experience for all customers visiting our pubs and drinking our beer.”
Goal is to attract 'the very best'
Everards added: “Our goal is to attract and retain the very best licensees in the industry. This approach, matched with tailored support and investment, provides the right foundation to ensure that each of our pubs are the first choice for customers within their respective trading area.”
Meanwhile, Gould said he expects to submit a detailed plan to develop its new brewery site by the summer of 2014. The project at the Soar Valley Park received outline planning consent in July.
Gould said: “The local conditions are progressing well and I am very pleased to report that Mr Pickles, the Secretary of State who has responsibility for national planning policy, has decided not to call-in our planning application.
“This is good news and means that in the New Year we can now work hard to produce a detailed planning application for the 90 acre site for Blaby District Council to consider.”
