Temperatures reached 26.5C in parts of the UK yesterday (8 April), making it one of the hottest early April days in decades, according to the Met Office.
The warm weather, while short-lived, has already translated into stronger trading conditions for many operators, particularly those with outdoor space.
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Simon Collinson, director of Oak Taverns, said: “Sunshine, wet-led pubs with outside space are a great combination, we had our best Wednesday of the year.”
‘Long may it last’
Dom Jacobs, founder and managing director of Ardent Pub Group, which last month won Best Premium Food Offer at the Publican Awards, reported a notable uplift across his estate.
He said: “Sales at our sites were up between 30 to 40% year on year. Weather was comparable but currently it is Easter holidays so would have anticipated it to be a bit quieter. The suggestion to us is that fewer people are away this year possibly because of the war and the cost of travel. Cocktails and rosé sales were through the roof so everyone clearly going for it. Long may it last.”
The impact of the sunshine has not been evenly distributed, however. Operators without outdoor space have seen more muted performance, highlighting the ongoing importance of beer gardens and terraces in driving seasonal trade.
Heath Ball, managing director of Frisco Pubs, said: “It’s amazing how a bit of sunshine and warmer weather lifts everyone’s spirits and boosts their confidence to spend. Red Lion and Sun saw fantastic sales with double the figures compared to last week. Unfortunately, with winners there are always losers. The Angel, lacking outside space, was quiet. The Wenlock and Lockhart also experienced disappointing sales.”
Volatile uplift
Data suggests the uplift can be immediate but volatile. William Lees-Jones, managing director of JW Lees, said: “Like I’ve said before ‘we always get the same weather just not in the same order’ this week has been crazy.
“Monday +58% (and Bank Holiday effect), Tuesday +7%, Wednesday +26%. Although last week was down 7% despite Easter, owing to the very good weather last year. The sun remains our greatest salesperson. Sun’s out equals beer garden weather.”
Previous reporting has shown that warmer weather consistently drives increased dwell time, earlier trading and higher spend per head, particularly in spring when the uplift in consumer mood is most pronounced.
However, operators remain cautious about how long the boost will last, with cooler conditions and rain forecast to follow. As seen in previous years, short bursts of good weather can deliver strong but unpredictable spikes in trade rather than sustained growth.
The spell highlights the continued importance of weather to pub trade, particularly for sites with outdoor space.
