Mitchells & Butlers Defies Market Trends with Double-Digit Profit Growth

Mitchells & Butlers (M&B), the operator behind well-known brands such as Toby Carvery, Harvester, Miller & Carter and Browns, has posted a strong trading performance in the first half of its financial year, with both sales and profits on the rise.

The hospitality group recorded a 4.3% rise in like-for-like sales and a 10.4% increase in operating profit for the 28 weeks ending 12 April 2025. Total revenue for the period reached £1.45 billion, up from £1.39 billion a year earlier. Operating profit climbed to £181 million, compared to £164 million in the previous year, while profit before tax rose to £134 million from £108 million.

Chief Executive Phil Urban credited the company’s performance to its ongoing focus on strengthening customer appeal across its varied brand portfolio, alongside operational efficiencies delivered through its internal Ignite programme. The strategy appears to be paying off, with the company continuing to outperform wider market trends.

Looking ahead, M&B expects to meet the upper end of full-year profit forecasts. However, it has acknowledged the likelihood of increased cost pressures in the next financial year. Despite this, Urban remains confident that the group’s disciplined focus on its key priorities — particularly its estate investment programme and cost-saving initiatives — will continue to drive value.

M&B’s optimism stands out at a time when many in the casual dining sector are grappling with high inflation, shifting consumer habits, and staffing pressures. The group’s ability to maintain growth amidst these headwinds raises questions about what others in the sector might learn from its model.

As the industry continues to navigate a tough economic landscape, M&B’s half-year results offer a rare note of resilience — a sign that with the right strategy, consistent performance is still within reach.