Young’s sees sales close in on 2019 levels despite Covid-19 restrictions

Pent-up demand has seen Young’s Brewery’s pubs outperform board expectations as Covid-19 restrictions lift.

Despite restrictions on capacity and the ban on indoor drinking for much of the second quarter, the company told markets this morning that sales sat at 95 per cent of 2019 levels.

The pub industry has had salt poured in the wound in recent weeks with the self-isolation ‘pingdemic’ causing staffing chaos across the country.

Chairman of Young & Co.’s Brewery Stephen Goodyear said, “We were disappointed to have not been able to resume full trading on 21 June 2021, the originally scheduled ‘freedom day’, but are pleased we are now able to operate close to normal following yesterday’s lifting of restrictions.”

The brewery and hotel business remain ‘optimistic’ about the latter half of the year and hope to see their upgraded venues used to their full potential for ‘another busy staycation summer’ regardless of concerns the “pingdemic” brings.

Like most hospitality venues in April, the British chain opened up for outside use only and traded in 144 pubs, with the remaining opening for complete use on May 17.

As of July 19 all hospitality sectors could reopen without any restrictions , however the so-called “pingdemic” has resulted in staff shortages across the industry and threatens a slowed recovery for pubs, restaurants, and hotels.

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