In a trading update, the premium pubs and bedrooms operator said like for like sales for the three weeks to 5 January rose 11.2%, against strong results from the prior year.
Performance was strongest across the key festive dates, with like for likes up 12.3% over Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
The former City Pub estate delivered 26% growth over Christmas and Boxing Day, reflecting its integration into the wider Young’s proposition following acquisition.
Total managed revenue for the 14 weeks to 5 January 2026 increased 5.6%, or 5.7% on a like for like basis, taking year to date like for like managed revenue growth to 5.4%.
The group said the result underlined the effectiveness of its continued investment in a premium and differentiated estate.
‘Controlling the controllable’
Chief executive Simon Dodd said: “During the six weeks of the festive period, we recorded our highest ever sales in one day, setting multiple daily and weekly records across our estate.
“Young’s remains well-positioned to withstand the well-publicised headwinds facing our sector. We continue to invest in and innovate across our premium estate. We are focused on controlling the controllable and continuing to give our customers a great reason to come to our pubs.”
Market move
Alongside the trading update, Young’s confirmed its intention to move from the alternative investment market (AIM) to the main market, with admission targeted for the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval.
The board expects the move to enhance the company’s corporate profile and broaden access to UK and global institutional investors, while supporting its focus on disciplined capital allocation, cash generation and further deleveraging.
Dodd added that AIM had played a crucial role in supporting Young’s growth over the past two decades, but said a main market listing represented a “natural and exciting next step” for the business.