Northern pub operator and brewer Robinsons has achieved a record turnover in its latest financial year.

Revenue at the family brewer for 2023 was £92.3m (£83.1m in 2022), which delivered an increased operating profit of £6.1m (£5.9m in 2022).

Robinsons has also reported the highest level of annual investment to date on both its brewing and pub estate, with a combined year’s investment of £20.7m.

“We’ve taken this year to strengthen and continue momentum in the business. In our managed houses we focused on consolidation, following several acquisitions in recent years,” said joint MDs Oliver and William Robinson.

“The trade continued to be strong, while we have invested and focused on delivering a great customer experience. On top of six significant investments in the managed house estate, we also saw the first fully electric kitchen, solar panels and electric vehicle chargers installed across two of our managed pubs, as we continue our journey towards being carbon neutral.”

The directors outlined how 2024 has set further challenges for the pub businesses following the chancellor’s autumn Budget.

“In response to this, we enhanced the business support we provide to our Pub Partners to prepare them for the impact of the increases in NICs and reduction in business rates support. We are confident in the level of support we provide, however, remain concerned about the impact of these changes for the wider pub industry,” said the directors.

“Our sector provides much more than a pint; the social value of pubs cannot be overlooked and needs to be supported. The government needs to look urgently at the cumulative impact on the changes they have announced and reduce the overall tax burden on pubs and breweries.”

Robinsons says it is continuing to look for freehold pubs and small companies which match its portfolio to add to its estate.

Pictured: artist’s impression of the new Robinsons brewery