Like-for-like food sales were up by 8.6 per cent during the period, when compared with the same 18-week period in 2009. Meanwhile, earnings in its leased division grew by 0.7 per cent.

Despite an "uncertain" outlook due to planned public spending cuts and an increase in VAT, Greene King said it will continue to expand its retail businesses and remains confident of a "successful" year.

A Greene King spokesperson said: "Overall, operating profit, cashflow and the balance sheet are strong, and in line with our expectations. The pubs acquired over the last year are trading very well and investment in our existing brands and formats is delivering healthy returns."

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