THE FIRM that runs 134 pubs and restaurants in Hampshire today reported a rise in half year profits and said 3,000 new jobs were on the menu as it gears up for more growth.
Greene King, which owns Hungry Horse, Old English Inns and the Loch Fyne Restaurants chains, said pre-tax profits for the group lifted by 5.6 per cent to £73.1 million in the six months to October 16.
Overall revenues were a record £527.5 million, up 9 per cent on a year earlier, but it warned that it sees a tough year ahead.
Greene King, which employs 1,330 people in Hampshire in roles including food development, catering, bar staff and management, said it wanted to create 3,000 new jobs over three years as part of plans to boost its estate to 1,100 managed pubs and restaurants, up from 950 currently.
Hundreds of jobs could be created in Hampshire.
Suffolk-based Greene King said new sites and strong demand helped total food sales jump 16.3 per cent in the first six months of its financial year.
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