Tue 31st Jan 2017 - Charles Wells reports turnover and profit rise, preparing to accelerate roll-out of Pizza, Pots and Pints concept Charles Wells reports turnover and profit rise, preparing to accelerate roll-out of Pizza, Pots and Pints concept: Bedford-based brewer and retailer Charles Wells has reported a rise in turnover and profit and is preparing to accelerate the roll-out of its Pizza, Pots and Pints concept. The company reported at its annual meeting that profit in 2016 was up 1% on last year to £7.1m while turnover increased by £4.8m. Investment in its leased and tenanted pubs equated to £3.7m (an average of £19,689 per pub). It said Estrella Damm was performing exceptionally well, gaining the highest cash rate of sale of all world beers in London and second nationally. Charles Wells France opened two new pubs and reported an increased operating profit of 126%. Meanwhile, the company invested £1.2m in the brewery’s brewhouse. Alongside these, several new contracts and product launches underpinned the financial positives for the business. Estrella Damm extended its distribution contract with Charles Wells for a further five years while there was a new ad campaign for flagship brand Bombardier across television, billboard, and print media. New distribution contracts were signed for US craft beer favourite Founders and South Africa’s highest rated brewers Devil’s Peak Brewing Company. A new five-point continuous development plan has been introduced for licensees to start after their initial 12-month new business training. Chief executive Justin Phillimore said: “We had a great year celebrating our 140th year of brewing beer! Highlights included Estrella Damm extended its distribution contract with us for a further five years, excellent profit growth across our managed houses in the UK and France, the launch of Charlie Wells Triple Hopped IPA and Bombardier Pale Ale, and ongoing investment in our leased and tenanted pubs to the tune of £3.7m, all equating to an increase in turnover across the business of £4.8m. We’ll be focusing investment in our managed houses, accelerating roll-out of our Pizza, Pots and Pints concept and actively looking for more sites across France. Leased and tenanted pubs will see greater training and guidance for anyone who needs it and we’ll continue to support them with a wider portfolio of beers to entice customers in and increase their own profits.”