Pub and restaurant operator Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) is plotting overseas expansion for its Miller & Carter (M&C) steakhouses after first-half profits growth
The group said its M&C chain, including a branch in Union Street, Aberdeen, continued to perform strongly despite Brexit uncertainty.
M&B said it would open an M&C in Germany later this year, adding: “This is an opportunity to test the concept in a new market and, if successful, would provide a further pipeline of growth for the brand.”
The group, whose other brands include All Bar One, O’Neill’s, Toby Carvery and Harvester, reported a return to profits growth in the first half of its trading year.
Adjusted operating profits rose to £151 million in the 28 weeks to April 13, up from £141m in the same period last year. Revenue was higher at £1.19 billion, while like-for-like sales climbed 4.1%.
The company said its focus on efficiency was responsible for the improved performance.
Chief executive Phil Urban added: “Success in this highly competitive market is dependent on a continuous stream of improvements, and that is what we are delivering.”
Like-for-like sales during the past 33 weeks were up by 3.8%, compared with a year ago.
M&B said it was confident of its ability to outperform the market amid all the economic and political uncertainty.