Boss of London pub group Young’s warns the price of a pint is set to rise

oung’s has swung back to profit after seeing sales return to 2019 levels, but the pub group’s CEO today warned that the price of a pint is set to rise.

Patrick Dardis told the Standard the 189-year-old pubco, behind venues including the City’s Lamb Tavern and the new Windmill in Clapham, is “back in action“.

Young’s revenues were down just 1% on 2019 levels in the half year to September 27, and topped them by 8% in the past 12 weeks.

The company, which saw a £45.2 million 2020 pre-tax loss, today reported a half-year pre-tax profit of £22.2 million and reinstated its dividend.

Trade is “absolutely flying” in towns and in London suburbs, but still 12% down on pre-Covid levels in the City and West End as hybrid working hits trade on Mondays and Fridays.