Marston's acts to aid struggling landlords

Brewer and pub operator Marston's today revealed it is absorbing the rising cost of lager and freezing the price of its own beers to protect struggling landlords

The move was announced as the company revealed that like-for-like sales in the Marston's Pub Company leased division fell 6% in the 15 weeks to 17 January.

At Marston's Inns & Taverns, the managed pub division, like-for-like sales fell 2.9% on the 12 months previously.

As well as mitigating the impact of the "recent substantial price increases from the major lager brewers", Marston's is providing financial support including additional discounts and lower rents "where appropriate".

The company, which employs 12,000 people, said the move would protect sales and margins in a "competitive environment".

Marston's has 2,250 pubs and bars in England and Wales, including 506 managed pubs under the brands Tavern Table, Two for One and Pitcher & Piano.

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By Daniel Thomas

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