The Leicestershire-based business posted an increase in turnover to £37.9m (2024: £36.2m), a boost in operating profit to £4.1m (2024: £2.1m) while adjusted operating profit was up 33% to £3.6m.
Growth was driven by strong trading across the group’s 144-pub estate, operated under tenanted and managed partnership models, and the continued success of the Beer Hall at Everards Meadows, which achieved £3.9m in net sales, up 16% year-on-year.
Everards cited sector challenges in the form of wage increases, a cut in business rates relief, alcohol duty rises in line with inflation and unpredictable energy costs while customers remain under pressure from inflation and rising mortgage costs.
The business said its annual performance was reminiscent of the success last seen by the company in 2018 (operating 19 fewer pubs than in 2018) as the hospitality sector faces mounting pressures under the current Labour Government.
Tenants must manage costs
Everards stated: “At the sharp end of these pressures are the company’s business owners, who directly absorb the operational and financial strain created by rising costs and weakening consumer demand.
“While the broader sector faces systemic challenges, it is the pub tenants who must manage wage increases, soaring rates, higher input costs and unpredictable utilities on a day-to-day basis.
“At the same time, they are expected to maintain service standards and deliver value alongside quality to increasingly price sensitive customers and keep their pubs commercially viable.
“This combination of rising overheads and squeezed margins places unprecedented pressure on business owners.”
Strong foundations
The company added it has continued to invest in its freehold estate, refurbishments and digital platforms to support its business owners while a leadership change saw Andy Wilson succeeding Stephen Gould as managing director with Gould remaining on the board as deputy chairman in a non-executive capacity.
Chairman Julian Everard said: “Everards enters 2026 with strong foundations and a clear strategy focused on long-term value creation.
“While cost pressures remain intense, our commitment to quality, partnership, and community ensures we are well-positioned to navigate these challenges working with our business owners.”
Managing director Andy Wilson added: “Our focus for 2026 is on supporting our business owners through proactive cost management, tools to enhance and grow business and sustainability initiatives through investment.
“We will continue to champion the pub sector and call for fairer taxation and business rates reform to protect these vital community assets.”
