Frankie & Benny’s owner The Restaurant Group (TRG) has made a “buoyant” start to the year.

Despite selling its Est, Est, Est restaurant chain and Caffé Uno group in 2005, turnover in the 26 weeks 2 July increased 12.7% to £147.4m (2005: £130.8m).

Pre-tax profit at the group, which has 260 branded restaurants, jumped 16.5% to £13.5m (2005: £11.6m).

The group is pursuing a strategy of organic growth and plans to open around 40 new restaurants in 2006. This includes Deep Pan Pizza conversions.

During the first half of the year the company launched a new Little Frankie’s concept, and added two Blubeckers restaurants. Its efforts to revitalise Mexican brand Chiquito saw the 38-strong chain record the highest like-for-like sales in the group and a 60% increase in profit.

Andrew Page, chief executive, said: “TRG has made an excellent start to 2006 and has begun the second half strongly. Year to date, our like-for-like sales are 4% ahead of 2005.”

On 8 September the company announced the resignation of Bob Ivell from the board. Ivell is executive chairman of high-street pub operator Regent Inns.

Two new Blubeckers signed >>

The Restaurant Group posts strong results for 2005 >>

The Restaurant Group to return £35m to shareholders >>

TRG buys back Deep Pan Pizza >>

By Chris Druce

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