Costa Coffee has been the star performer for Whitbread, according to the group’s report for the 39 weeks to November.
The coffee-shop brand reported an increase in total sales of 22.6 per cent, far higher than any of Whitbread business – the nearest was Premier Inns, which recorded a 16.4 per cent increase.
Whitbread’s CEO, Alan Parker, said: “We have expanded Costa substantially and the total number of outlets now stands at 1,239, across 26 markets.”
However, he said, Whitbread had decided to cut back on expansion – although its planned spend is still well out of the reach of many competitors.
“We have been reviewing our future development plans as the macro economic situation has become increasingly challenging.
He added: “We believe that while this environment remains we should take a more prudent approach to organic expansion. Although we remain committed to growing the business, we have decided to limit our capital expenditure next year to about £200 million, compared to £300 million in 2008/09.”
By Ian Boughton
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