The operator, which runs 118 pubs and inns, saw like-for-like sales increase 6.1% in the year to 31 October 2026, up from 5.2% at the half-year stage.
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Growth was recorded across food, drinks and accommodation, with sales rising 5.9%, 6.6% and 5.2% respectively.
London was a particular highlight, with managed pub sales up 12.4% year to date, supported by investment in the Brown Cow in Fulham and the Cross Keys in Chelsea.
‘Growing momentum’
Recent refurbishments at the Mayflower in Lymington, Dundas Arms in Kintbury and Brown Cow in Fulham delivered average sales growth of 43.4% compared with last year following their reopenings.
The group’s premium accommodation business, Butcombe Boutique Inns, also reported a 6.6% increase in like-for-like sales, with work under way to convert the Anchor Inn in Lower Froyle into its 13th site.
Meanwhile, Butcombe’s UK drinks division saw sales increase 7.9% year on year, including 7.4% growth in sales to pubs and other hospitality venues.
Butcombe Group chief executive Jonathan Lawson said: “Our third quarter performance demonstrates the growing momentum across all areas of the business, building on a resilient half year.”
He added: “The investment we have made into our estate, particularly across our premium accommodation, London sites, and dedicated event spaces like the new Dovecote Barn is delivering clear returns and meeting the evolving needs of our guests.”
Christmas outlook
Looking ahead, the group said Christmas bookings were running ahead of the same period last year, providing confidence heading into the final quarter.
However, Lawson warned that rising operating costs continued to put pressure on hospitality businesses.
“Despite words of support, we are yet to see actions from the Government that recognise the cost of doing business or encourage us to invest and grow.”
He added that the group remained confident heading into 2027, supported by growth across its pubs, accommodation and brewing operations.
