Hollywood Bowl reported record annual revenue and said profit would meet expectations, even as the hottest UK spring and summer on record kept customers away from its bowling alleys over the second half.
The operator of the UK’s and Canada’s largest ten-pin bowling chains said total revenue rose 4.3% to a record £261.6m in the year to 30 September.
But its UK like-for-like sales fell 1.4% over the year, with a sharp 5.6% drop in the second half as the prolonged hot, dry weather drew people outdoors.
But its Canadian business grew strongly, with revenue up 9%, helped by new centre openings.
The company said disciplined cost control and flexible pricing had cushioned the weather’s impact, leaving it on track to grow adjusted pre-tax profit in line with expectations. It ended the year with net cash of £13.5m and completed a £2.9m share buyback.
Hollywood Bowl opened four new centres during the year, taking its estate to 95, and plans eight more in the coming year on the way to a target of 130 by 2033.
Stephen Burns, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I’m pleased that the fundamental financial and operational strengths of our underlying model allowed us to deliver significant sales growth, even against a challenging backdrop.”
“Demand remained resilient during the extended period of record hot weather in the UK, supported by our disciplined cost and pricing model, and our operational initiatives to drive footfall. Our affordable, inclusive proposition has continued to ensure we are well-positioned in an environment where consumers are closely watching what they spend.”