(Alliance News) - Hollywood Bowl Group PLC on Tuesday said it saw "record" revenue in the first half of its financial year, while expressing confidence in its outlook.

In a trading update for the six months ended March 31, the Hemel Hempstead, England-based ten-pin bowling centre operator said revenue grew 8.1% to GBP119.2 million from GBP110.2 million a year earlier.

This includes UK revenue rising 4.4% to GBP103.3 million, or up 1.3% on a like-for-like basis.

Canada revenue grew 47% to CAD27 million, around GBP15.9 million, when reviewing in Canadian dollars to allow for disaggregating the foreign currency effect, with Canadian bowling centres seeing an 8.0% like-for-like revenue rise.

"We are pleased with the strong trading performance achieved in the first half of the year, particularly in the context of a very strong prior year comparative. It reflects the continued demand for high quality, great value and fun leisure activities that families, friends and colleagues can enjoy together. Our teams play a very important role in our success and their excellent service and dedication to our customers' experience is reflected in growing customer service scores," said Chief Executive Officer Stephen Burns.

"We continue to work hard to evolve our value-for-money customer proposition, including investment in innovation, technology, and sustainability programmes. Our strong cash position means we are well placed to continue to invest in improving and expanding our portfolio, both in the UK and Canada, and continue to create value for all our stakeholders."

Looking ahead, Hollywood Bowl is confident about the outlook for the business for its financial 2024. "Although the economic backdrop remains challenging for consumers, [we] remain focused on offering a high quality and great value for money experience, with broad appeal to all customer groups looking for leisure experiences to enjoy together," the company said.

Hollywood Bowl anticipates announcing its interim results in early June.

Shares in Hollywood Bowl were down 0.8% to 333 pence each in London on Tuesday afternoon.

By Greg Rosenvinge, Alliance News senior reporter

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