The Slug and Lettuce pub chain is opening six new outlets a month, as plans laid by owner Laurel Pub Company to double the size of the estate by the end of the year take shape.

Laurel, which aimed to boost the estate from 50 to 100, now has 86 Slug and Lettuces and is converting properties currently run as its wet-led Hog's Head and Yates pubs.

Suzanne Baker, commercial director of Laurel Pub Company, said: "With the pace we've been converting, I believe we're one of the fastest growing brands on the high street."

Laurel is also revamping its tapas restaurant chain La Tasca and premium casual dining offshoot La Vina, with changes in food and drink menus. Baker said: "We need to get the La Tasca brand out to more customers and make it seem very accessible."

Laurel plans high street brand blitz >>

Laurel expects merger to deliver 70% increase in food sales >>

By Christopher Walton

E-mail your comments to Christopher Walton here.